From AI to trade: Modi and Macron chart new course for India-France strategic partnership

India and France on Sunday announced an ambitious plan to double their annual bilateral trade within the next five yearsalongside a series of agreements and initiatives covering innovation, artificial intelligence, technology and strategic cooperation following wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The high-level meeting took place during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France, where he is participating in key diplomatic engagements, including discussions with world leaders on global economic and strategic issues.

Trade expansion at the centre of talks

One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the decision to establish a mechanism aimed at doubling annual India-France bilateral trade over the next five years.

Officials said both countries agreed to strengthen economic cooperation and explore new opportunities in trade, investment, technology and industrial collaboration.

The initiative is expected to deepen commercial ties between the two strategic partners and create fresh opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Innovation roadmap unveiled

The two leaders also endorsed an Innovation Roadmapreflecting the growing importance of research, startups, emerging technologies and industrial innovation in the bilateral relationship. The roadmap comes as India and France observe the Year of Innovationa joint initiative designed to encourage collaboration between innovators, researchers, academic institutions and technology companies.

Both sides emphasized the role of innovation in driving economic growth and addressing future global challenges.

Focus on artificial intelligence

A major highlight of the discussions was the launch of a joint artificial intelligence framework. The framework is expected to facilitate cooperation in AI research, responsible use of emerging technologies, talent development and technological partnerships. Artificial intelligence has emerged as a key area of cooperation between governments worldwide, with increasing focus on innovation, regulation and ethical deployment.

Thirteen outcomes announced

According to official information, the Modi-Macron talks produced 13 outcomescovering a broad range of sectors. These include initiatives related to trade, technology, innovation, strategic cooperation and future-oriented partnerships. The agreements reflect the expanding scope of the India-France strategic partnership, which already spans defence, space, clean energy, maritime security and advanced technologies.

Strengthening a key partnership

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors and strengthen coordination on regional and global issues.

The announcements are expected to further consolidate India-France relations at a time when both nations are seeking greater collaboration in economic growth, innovation and emerging technologies.

Key highlights

• India and France aim to double trade.
• The target timeline is the next five years.
• An Innovation Roadmap was officially launched.
• A joint artificial intelligence framework was unveiled.
• Prime Minister Modi met President Macron in France.
• The talks produced 13 official outcomes.
• Technology and innovation featured prominently.
• The partnership spans economic and strategic sectors.