India and France have explored new opportunities to deepen cooperation in space, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies during a high-level bilateral meeting between Union Minister Jitendra Singh and French Minister for Higher Education, Research and Space Philippe Baptiste.

The meeting was held through video conference and focused on strengthening the growing strategic partnership between the two countries in science, research and innovation.

During the discussions, Jitendra Singh said the declaration of 2026 as the Indo-French Year of Innovation will provide fresh momentum to collaboration in cutting-edge sectors. He highlighted the expanding partnerships between India’s Department of Science and Technology and leading French institutions in areas such as advanced materials, digital sciences, applied mathematics and artificial intelligence.

The minister also reviewed the long-standing cooperation between Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES). He referred to successful joint satellite missions such as Megha-Tropiques and SARAL, along with ongoing work on the TRISHNA project.

Jitendra Singh also highlighted cooperation related to NavIC ground stations in France and appreciated French support for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. He noted that reforms in India’s space sector have helped create nearly 400 space startups, opening up new opportunities for industry-level partnerships between India and France.

Philippe Baptiste described India as a “key and trusted partner” and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in Earth observation, launch systems and space exploration. He also proposed stronger collaboration in ocean-related data sharing under the “Space for Ocean Alliance” initiative and deeper engagement between CNES and Indian institutions.

The French minister further expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation in human spaceflight, including astronaut training, microgravity experiments and future joint missions. He invited India to participate in the International Space Summit scheduled to be held in Paris in September 2026.

The discussions also touched upon the upcoming Bengaluru Space Expo 2026, which will be organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with ISRO, IN-SPACe and NSIL from September 7 to 9 at BIEC, Bengaluru.

Responding positively, Jitendra Singh said India remains open to deeper collaboration in ocean research and human spaceflight, highlighting the country’s Deep Ocean Mission and long coastline as major strengths for marine research partnerships.

Both sides also acknowledged the contribution of the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research in promoting long-term scientific collaboration between institutions in both countries.

The meeting concluded with India and France reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation in science, technology and space through research, innovation and industry participation.

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter, Instagram.

"Exciting news! Elets technomedia is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest insights!" Click here!