New Delhi, May 7 (IANS). India and France have resolved to further strengthen mutual cooperation in the fields of science, marine research and space. In the ministerial-level meeting held on Thursday, both the countries expressed satisfaction over the continuously increasing cooperation, especially in the areas of high-technology. This information was given in an official statement of the Department of Space.
Union Minister of State for Science, Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh met the French Minister of Higher Education, Research and Space, Prof. Had a bilateral meeting with Philippe Baptist through video conference. During this, both the leaders discussed the growing scope of India-France cooperation in science, technology and space.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India-France partnership in the field of science and space has now become a strong foundation of relations between the two countries. Due to this, not only technological development is taking place but also the connection between people is increasing. The year 2026 has been declared as “Indo-French Year of Innovation”, which will be a good opportunity to increase cooperation in new and emerging technologies.
He said that after the recent reforms, India’s space sector has progressed rapidly. There are now around 400 space startups operating in the country and the space economy is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. This will create new opportunities for partnership between the industries of the two countries.
Pro. Philippe Baptist described India as a reliable and important partner in space and research cooperation. Recalling his old association with ISRO, he said that there has been a strong tradition of cooperation between the two countries. They expressed desire to increase cooperation in areas such as Earth observation, launch systems and space exploration.
Baptiste also proposed increasing cooperation in sharing ocean-related data under the “Space for Ocean Alliance”. He also talked about close cooperation between French space agency ‘CNES’ and Indian institutions. They also expressed desire to enhance cooperation in human space missions, including astronaut training, microgravity experiments and long-term partnerships.
He also invited India for active participation in the International Space Summit to be held in Paris in September 2026. Also suggested that it be linked with India’s Bengaluru Space Event so that a big global platform can be created on space related issues.
Dr. Jitendra Singh welcomed these proposals and said that India is ready to increase cooperation in marine research and human space missions. He described India’s “deep ocean mission” and long coastline as a major strength in the region.
Dr Singh also informed that collaboration is going on in France on developing ‘NEVIC’ ground station and appreciated France’s support in Gaganyaan mission.
He also mentioned the strengthening partnership between the Department of Science and Technology and leading organizations in France. These collaborations have led to new initiatives in areas such as advanced materials and digital science.
–IANS
AY/ABM
