MUMBAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron kicked off the India-France Innovation Forum-2026 in Mumbai, signaling a new era of technological synergy between the two democracies. PM Modi’s keynote painted a vivid picture of a relationship fortified by innovation, reliability, and common ideals.
‘India and France represent two of the world’s premier innovation centers uniting,’ Modi declared. He unveiled plans to mark 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation, framing it as a testament to their joint resolve rather than a mere event.
Reflecting on India’s storied history of inventions benefiting humanity, Modi shifted focus to the present: a dynamic startup landscape and cutting-edge labs fueling ‘innovation for global good.’ The Startup India drive has transformed India into the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with unicorns multiplying from four to over 120 since 2014.
The leaders underscored the exceptional nature of Indo-French bonds. As one of India’s earliest strategic allies, France has seen partnerships deepen under Macron. Today, they formalize a ‘special global strategic partnership’ grounded in trust.
Among highlights, Modi spotlighted the collaborative effort to produce a Mount Everest-capable helicopter in India for worldwide export. This move exemplifies how the duo is pioneering solutions amid global uncertainties, fostering economic ties, defense cooperation, and technological frontiers for a prosperous future.