Karnataka and France Discuss Stronger Partnership in AI, Aerospace and Defence
Talks in Bengaluru focus on innovation, skilling and long-term technology collaboration.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government and France have held high-level discussions to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), aerospace, defence manufacturing and emerging technologies.
Karnataka’s Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology, Priyank Kharge, met Anne Le Hénaff, France’s Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs, in Bengaluru on Tuesday.
According to an official statement, the meeting focused on expanding collaboration in areas such as innovation, skilling, AI, aerospace, defence manufacturing, startup ecosystems and digital governance. Both sides expressed keen interest in building structured, long-term partnerships between Karnataka and France.
France highlighted its increasing demand for skilled engineers and technology professionals and showed interest in working with Karnataka on structured talent development programmes in emerging technologies.
The discussions also built on the strong foundation of Indo-French cooperation in sectors like aerospace, animation and new technologies. Previous engagements have included Centres of Excellence, academic collaborations and startup exchange initiatives.
Officials reviewed ongoing cooperation with French innovation hubs and institutions, including incubation and innovation platforms in Paris.
Kharge outlined Karnataka’s vision to create dedicated innovation, skills and manufacturing corridors in partnership with global stakeholders, particularly during the Indo-French Year of Innovation. He proposed strengthening ties through the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) and setting up a physical institutional platform in Karnataka to support French startups, SMEs and MSMEs seeking market access, research partnerships and a long-term presence in India.
He said there is significant potential to quickly advance cooperation in skills development, innovation and advanced manufacturing. He suggested establishing a skills corridor focused on emerging technologies, an innovation corridor linking Centres of Excellence and research institutions, and stronger collaboration in aerospace and defence supply chains.
Kharge added that Bengaluru could serve as a gateway for French companies entering India, while Paris could provide similar opportunities for Karnataka-based startups looking to expand into France and the European Union.
Hénaff emphasised that France’s AI strategy is built on three key priorities: promoting sustainable AI, ensuring AI serves the public interest, and strengthening child protection in the digital space. She said France sees strong opportunities to work with Karnataka on responsible and inclusive AI by combining innovation with effective regulation and public policy.
