India, France bolster ties with focus on IMEC, nuclear cooperation, and AI

India and France have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), a major connectivity initiative aimed at linking India to Europe via sea and land routes. The decision was announced on Feb 12 following high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron during Modi’s two-day visit to France.

A joint statement issued after the visit stated, “The two leaders recalled the launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) on the margins of the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023 and agreed to work together more closely on implementing the initiative.”

Reviving the India-Middle East-Europe corridor

IMEC, which includes Israel as a participant, had faced delays due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. However, both leaders underscored the importance of the corridor in enhancing economic cooperation between India and Europe.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed the media, revealing that Modi traveled to Marseille aboard the French presidential aircraft following the Paris AI Action Summit. During an interaction, Macron emphasized Marseille’s strategic significance, stating, “Marseille will be the entry point for the whole European market, and IMEC will channel a lot of energy to Marseille.”

Joint Development of Nuclear Reactors

The visit also marked a significant development in Indo-French nuclear cooperation. Officials from both nations signed a letter of intent to collaborate on the production of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs).

Describing nuclear energy as an “essential part of the energy mix,” Modi and Macron emphasized the role of SMRs — smaller, factory-fabricated reactors offering a flexible and scalable alternative to conventional nuclear plants.

Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic ties in Marseille

Modi and Macron on Feb 12 jointly inaugurated the new Indian Consulate General in Marseille, expanding India’s diplomatic presence in France. Marseille is set to host the Mediterranean edition of the Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship geopolitical conference, later this year.

Reflecting on the historical ties between India and Marseille, Modi recalled that Indian soldiers were stationed there during World War I.

“President Emmanuel Macron and I inaugurated the Indian Consulate in this vibrant city, marking a new chapter in India-France ties. This consulate will serve as an important bridge, strengthening our cultural, economic, and people-to-people connections,” he said.

A joint statement highlighted Marseille’s “strategic location” in the Mediterranean and its potential to enhance global connectivity, economic growth, and access to clean energy.

Paris AI Summit and Future Collaborations

Discussions between Modi and Macron also focused on artificial intelligence, space cooperation, civil nuclear energy, and healthcare. Misri announced that India had secured approval to host the next major global AI summit following its proposal at the Paris AI Action Summit.

India and France further welcomed “concrete projects” and enhanced trilateral cooperation with the United Arab Emirates and Australia in innovation, healthcare, renewable energy, education, and maritime security sectors.

During the AI summit, Modi co-chaired a session with Macron before jointly addressing the India-France CEOs Forum. The leaders also discussed key geopolitical developments in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific.

During his visit, Modi met with Estonian President Alar Karis and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, reinforcing India’s diplomatic engagements with key global leaders.

Honoring Indian soldiers and advancing scientific collaboration

In a tribute to India’s historical contributions to global conflicts, Modi and Macron visited the Mazargues War Cemetery, which holds the remains of Indian soldiers who fought in the 20th-century World Wars in Europe.

The leaders also toured the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) facility in Cadarache, underscoring India’s commitment to global scientific cooperation in nuclear fusion research.

A strengthening strategic partnership

With growing collaboration in infrastructure, clean energy, technology, and defense, Modi’s visit reaffirmed India and France’s strategic partnership. As both nations push forward with key initiatives like IMEC, nuclear cooperation, and AI leadership, their alliance is set to play a pivotal role in shaping global trade, energy, and technological innovation.