Last Updated on May 7, 2026 5:53 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
Andalib Akhter / New Delhi
India and France held high-level talks to deepen cooperation in science, technology, and space, with both countries signalling plans to broaden collaboration in emerging and strategic sectors.
Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh met virtually with French Higher Education, Research and Space Minister Philippe Baptiste to review ongoing partnerships and explore new opportunities.
During the discussions, India highlighted that scientific and space cooperation has become a major pillar of the India–France strategic relationship, strengthening not only technological capabilities but also people-to-people ties. Singh said the planned Indo-French Year of Innovation in 2026 could provide fresh momentum for joint work in emerging technologies and research.
On space collaboration, India pointed to the long-standing partnership between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and France’s National Centre for Space Studies (CNES), which has included joint satellite missions and cooperation on navigation systems. Singh also acknowledged French support for India’s Gaganyaan Mission and referred to opportunities for collaboration under India’s Deep Ocean Mission.
France described India as a trusted and important partner in research and space activities. Baptiste expressed interest in expanding cooperation in areas such as Earth observation, launch systems, space exploration, and human spaceflight. France also proposed stronger collaboration in astronaut training and microgravity experiments.
The French minister invited India to participate in the International Space Summit scheduled in Paris this September, and suggested linking it with India’s upcoming space event in Bengaluru to help build a broader global platform for space dialogue.
India’s Department of Space said the talks reflected the growing depth of the India–France strategic partnership, especially in high-technology sectors. Both countries also recognised the contribution of the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) in supporting long-term scientific cooperation and institutional research partnerships.
Both sides also acknowledged the important role played by the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) in sustaining long-term scientific collaboration and fostering research partnerships across institutions.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further deepen India-France cooperation in science, technology and space, leveraging innovation, research capabilities and growing industry participation for mutual and global benefit.
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