New Delhi, 07 May (H.S.):

India and France have agreed to further strengthen their collaboration in science, space, and emerging technologies.

High-Level Meeting

Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh held an important video conference meeting on Thursday with France's Minister for Higher Education, Research, and Space, Prof. Philippe Baptiste. The discussion reviewed ongoing joint projects between both countries and outlined future roadmaps.

Both sides acknowledged that India-France science and space cooperation has evolved into a robust strategic partnership. This collaboration extends beyond technology to play a crucial role in innovation, research, and addressing global challenges.

Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that growing India-France cooperation is strengthening both nations' scientific capabilities and creating positive global impact. He announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the India-France Year of Innovation to promote joint research and technology development in artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, digital science, and related fields.

The Ministry of Science & Technology informed that the meeting reviewed several major joint missions including Megha-Tropiques, TRISHNA, and SARAL. India's space agency ISRO and France's space agency CNES have been working together for a long time.

France reaffirmed its commitment to support India's ambitious Gaganyaan mission, describing it as a major opportunity in human spaceflight.

France proposed enhanced cooperation with India in human spaceflight, including astronaut training, microgravity experiments, and research for long-duration space missions. India welcomed this proposal and expressed willingness to expand future collaboration.

The meeting also discussed data sharing under the Space for Ocean Alliance. India highlighted its Deep Ocean Mission and vast maritime domain as strong foundations for this cooperation.

Both sides agreed to advance joint research in AI, data science, and applied mathematics.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar