Key Highlights
- PM Modi and President Macron inaugurated 'Bharat Innovates 2026' in Nice.
- Macron shared a selfie on X with the caption 'Nice!'; Modi replied warmly.
- Modi praised the India-France partnership as one of shared vision and innovation.
- Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Evian and hold bilateral meetings.
Warm Exchange on Social Media
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron shared a light-hearted exchange on social media on June 14, 2026, after a productive first leg of Modi's visit to France. Macron posted a selfie with Modi on X, captioned simply 'Nice!'—a playful reference to the city hosting the event. Modi responded, 'Nice to have met you in Nice. A productive first leg indeed. The India-France partnership will keep scaling new heights. See you in Evian and Paris.'
Bharat Innovates 2026 Conclave
The two leaders inaugurated the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave in Nice, focusing on technology and innovation cooperation. In his speech, Modi emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship, stating, 'There are some relations which are driven by shared vision, along with shared interest. The relation between France and India is like that. In this relation, there is connection as well as conviction. In this relation, there is innovation and inspiration. In this relation, there is shared values and shared vision.'
Modi thanked Macron for participating in the conclave and noted that India and France would continue to work closely on tech and innovation. The leaders greeted each other with a hug and handshake during the event.
Upcoming G7 Summit and Bilateral Meetings
Following the Nice leg, Modi will travel to Evian for the G7 Summit, where he is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump and other world leaders. The visit underscores India's growing role in global forums and its strategic partnership with France.
What Readers Should Know
- The India-France strategic partnership spans defense, space, nuclear energy, and now technology and innovation.
- Modi's visit to France is part of a broader European tour, with additional engagements in Paris.
- The 'Bharat Innovates' platform aims to showcase Indian startups and foster collaboration with French tech ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of PM Modi's visit to Nice?
PM Modi visited Nice to inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave with French President Emmanuel Macron and to hold bilateral talks.
What did PM Modi say about the India-France partnership?
PM Modi described the relationship as driven by shared vision and interest, highlighting connection, conviction, innovation, inspiration, and shared values.
Will PM Modi attend the G7 Summit?
Yes, PM Modi is scheduled to attend the G7 Summit in Evian, where he will meet US President Donald Trump and other world leaders.