India-France Forge Stronger Partnership Amid Digital Era's Challenges

At the 14th India-France CEO Forum, S. Jaishankar emphasized trust and collaboration in AI, software, and cybersecurity. Highlighting the 2026 Year of Innovation, he urged both nations to drive progress and address global challenges. Jaishankar called for tangible business outcomes and deeper cooperation in defense, clean energy, and infrastructure.

At the 14th India-France CEO Forum, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stressed the vital role of trust, transparency, and collaboration in the rapidly evolving digital age. His speech highlighted key areas such as artificial intelligence, software development, and cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of a multipolar world to mitigate bias in AI development.

The minister underscored the unique historical bond between India and France, noting their shared independent mindsets have forged a strategic partnership pivotal for global stability. Jaishankar emphasized the ambitious agenda set for 2026, designated as the India-France Year of Innovation, as both countries aim to reinforce each other's strategic positions and address volatile economic scenarios.

Jaishankar articulated the need for these diplomatic ties to translate into concrete business actions. He pointed out sectors like defense manufacturing, clean energy, infrastructure, and emerging technologies as key for collaboration, urging business leaders to capitalize on the ease of doing business, and government-industry partnerships to achieve significant advancements.

(With inputs from agencies.)