Karnataka–France cooperation : On Tuesday, the Karnataka government and France discussed further strengthening cooperation in the fields of technological infrastructure, development, artificial intelligence and defense manufacturing. Both sides expressed their desire to move forward toward a long-term and structured partnership.
Emphasis on AI and Technology Infrastructure
Karnataka’s Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology, Priyank Kharge, met Anne Le Henaff, Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs of the French government, in Bengaluru. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on increasing cooperation in areas such as innovation, skilling, AI, aerospace and defense manufacturing, startup ecosystem and digital governance. According to a statement issued by Kharge’s office, both sides showed deep interest in advancing long-term institutional cooperation between Karnataka and France.
France mentioned its growing need for skilled engineers and technology professionals and expressed its desire to partner with Karnataka for structured talent development and skill building in emerging technologies.
Innovation Ecosystem and Global Partnership
The statement said that this discussion was based on the strong foundation of India–France cooperation in areas such as aerospace, animation and emerging technologies. Earlier, dialogue between the two countries has taken place through Centres of Excellence, academic partnerships and startup exchange programs.
Both sides also reviewed the ongoing engagement with France’s innovation ecosystem and institutions, including incubation and innovation platforms in Paris.
Kharge highlighted Karnataka’s vision of creating dedicated innovation, skills and manufacturing corridors with global partners in the context of the Indo-French Year of Innovation. He proposed strengthening cooperation through the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) and establishing a physical institutional platform in Karnataka, so that French startups, SMEs and MSMEs can be assisted with access to the Indian market, research and development collaboration and long-term presence.
Possibilities in Skills Corridor and Defense Supply Chain
Kharge said, “There are some areas where we can move forward with speed and clarity—such as skills, innovation and advanced manufacturing. We can work toward a skills corridor focused on emerging technologies, an innovation corridor connecting Centres of Excellence, incubators and research institutions, and stronger partnership in aerospace and defense supply chain.
He said that Bengaluru can become the main gateway for French companies to enter India. At the same time, Paris can help Indian startups gain access to the markets of France and Europe. Anne Le Henaff said that France’s AI policy is based on three things—building AI with the environment in mind, using AI in the interest of people and strengthening the safety of children in the online world.
