Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday thanked French President Emmanuel Macron for participating in the Bharat Innovates event in Nice, as the two leaders highlighted growing India-France cooperation in innovation, technology and entrepreneurship.

In a post on X after meeting Macron in the French Riviera city, Modi expressed appreciation for the French leader's participation in the event, which was held as part of the India-France Year of Innovation.

"Delighted to see you again in Nice, my friend President Macron. I thank you for participating in 'Bharat Innovates,' as our two nations celebrate the 'Year of Innovation'," Modi said.

The post appeared to be a playful reference both to the French city hosting the leaders and to the warm interaction between the two. The photograph, taken against the backdrop of the Mediterranean coastline, showed Macron and Modi smiling as world leaders gathered in southern France ahead of the G7 Summit.

Earlier in the day, Macron welcomed Modi with a hug before the two leaders jointly inaugurated Bharat Innovates, an innovation-focused platform aimed at strengthening collaboration between startups, investors and technology leaders from India, France and other countries.

The event brought together more than 120 Indian startups, global investors, entrepreneurs and technology executives, showcasing India's rapidly growing innovation ecosystem and emerging strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence, deep technology, clean energy and digital innovation.

France has established itself as a strategic partner for India, engaging in significant defence initiatives such as the Rafale fighter aircraft and submarines, as well as collaboration in tackling environmental issues, ocean security, and reforming international institutions that govern global affairs.

The Prime Minister's trip to France precedes G7 outreach discussions where he will discuss important topics that include global trade, artificial intelligence, and conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, among others.

Later in the day, Modi is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with Macron where the two leaders will discuss advancements in their partnership and ways through which they can strengthen cooperation in various domains including technology and defense.

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