India France Bilateral Economic Cooperation

Summary of India-France Bilateral Talks (June 14, 2026)

Key Agreements:

1. Innovation Roadmap 2030: Adoption of a long-term framework to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly focusing on innovation and technology.
2. Joint AI Working Group: Establishment of a working group to expand collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
3. 19 Agreements Signed: Various agreements between entities from both countries in their innovation ecosystems.

Economic Collaboration:

1. India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Call for expedited adoption of the FTA, signed earlier in February 2026.
2. High-Level Mechanism: Formation of a mechanism aimed at doubling trade between India and France over the next five years.
3. Focus Areas: Discussions on enhancing cooperation in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), rail, and aviation sectors.

Dialogue on Economic Security:

1. Supply Chain Resilience: Commitment to strengthen supply chains, particularly concerning critical minerals.

International Relations:

1. Global Issues Discussion: While remaining cautious, leaders discussed critical global matters, including the situations in West Asia and Ukraine.

New Education Policy Initiatives:

1. Campus Collaborations: Invitation to French universities to establish campuses in India, aligning with the New Education Policy.

Nuclear Sector Collaboration:

1. SHANTI Act: Exploration of the implications of the SHANTI Act for French nuclear companies' participation in India’s nuclear sector.
2. Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant: Ongoing discussions between French EDF and Nuclear Power Cooperation of India Limited regarding the project's six reactor units, which have been under consideration for over 15 years.

Miscellaneous:

• Visa-Free Transit: Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the swift implementation of visa-free transit for Indian nationals at French airports.

These bilateral discussions reflect a strategic enhancement of the India-France partnership, marked by an emphasis on innovation, economic resilience, and cooperation in education and advanced sectors.