Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated the three-day ‘Bharat Innovates 2026’ innovation conclave in Nice, France, showcasing the growing partnership between the two nations in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event, launched during PM Modi’s official visit to France, brings together leading startups, innovators, investors and venture capital firms from India, France and several other countries to explore collaboration opportunities in emerging technologies and innovation-driven sectors.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the strong and evolving relationship between India and France, describing it as a partnership built on shared values, common goals and a collective vision for the future.
“There are some relations which are driven by shared vision along with shared interests. The relationship between India and France is one such partnership. It is defined by connection, conviction, innovation, inspiration, shared values and a shared vision,” PM Modi said.
Highlighting India’s innovation ecosystem, the Prime Minister stated that innovation has always been a part of India’s identity and cultural heritage.
“Innovation is in India’s DNA. For thousands of years, India has provided direction to the world through its innovations. Today, we are not merely adopters of technology but providers of technology,” he said.
PM Modi stressed that India’s technological advancements are focused on benefiting humanity and creating inclusive solutions for global challenges.
He said India aims to build trustworthy, human-centric and inclusive technology, adding that the country’s digital transformation has been guided by the principle of “AI for All.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s growing startup ecosystem, noting that the country now hosts more than 200,000 startups that contribute significantly to both the domestic and global economy.
“India has emerged not as a consumer of solutions, but as a contributor of solutions,” he said.
The Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave is expected to strengthen innovation partnerships between India and Europe while providing a platform for startups, investors and policymakers to collaborate on future technologies.
PM Modi is currently on a two-nation visit to France and Slovakia, where he is scheduled to participate in key international engagements, including the G7 Summit.
Following his engagements in France, the Prime Minister will travel to Slovakia for a State Visit from June 14-15, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country since Slovakia gained independence in 1993.
About the Author
