India, France Target Doubling Bilateral Trade Within Five Years Through Cooperation
Both nations seek stronger economic and energy cooperation.
India and France have set an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade from the current level of approximately $16 billion within the next five years, while also agreeing to deepen cooperation in civil nuclear energy. The decision was announced following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in the French port city of Nice on Sunday.
The two leaders met at Villa Kerylos after jointly inaugurating Bharat Innovates 2026, an initiative designed to connect Indian deep-tech startups with global investors and technology partners. Their discussions focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries and addressing major international developments, including the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.
Following the meeting, Modi described the discussions as "exceptionally productive" and said the leaders reviewed a broad range of areas for cooperation. According to the prime minister, the talks covered defence, technology, space, security, counter-terrorism, innovation, healthcare and education, reflecting the expanding scope of India-France relations.
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Civil nuclear energy emerged as a key area of future collaboration, with both countries expressing interest in working more closely to enhance energy security and support low-carbon development. The commitment aligns with ongoing efforts by India and France to diversify their strategic partnership beyond traditional sectors and into advanced technologies and sustainable energy solutions.
The meeting in Nice marked the first leg of Modi's nearly week-long visit to Europe. After engagements in France, the prime minister travelled to Slovakia and is expected to return to France later this week to participate in the outreach sessions of the G7 Summit, where India has once again been invited as a partner country.
The decision to pursue a significant increase in bilateral trade underscores the growing economic relationship between the two nations. With stronger cooperation in sectors ranging from defence and innovation to clean energy and investment, India and France are seeking to further consolidate a partnership that has become one of the most important strategic relationships for both countries.
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