India, France Agree to Deepen Space Ties Ahead of Paris Summit and Bengaluru Expo

India and France have agreed to further deepen their space partnership, with a focus on human spaceflight, advanced technologies, and closer collaboration between their space agencies and private industries. The decision came during a virtual bilateral meeting between Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and French Minister Prof. Philippe Baptiste.

The discussions were held ahead of two major events scheduled for September 2026: the International Space Summit in Paris (September 9-10) and the Bengaluru Space Expo (September 7-9). Both sides reviewed their respective participation in these events and discussed Prof. Baptiste's upcoming visit to India later this month.

Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed India's interest in the Paris Summit, noting its focus on space science, applications, the space economy, and secure space operations. India also welcomed proposed summit outcomes on the sustainable use of outer space and the integrity of space-based scientific data.

A key highlight of the talks was the invitation extended to the Chairman of ISRO to deliver the opening keynote at the Paris Summit on India's future human spaceflight plans in Low Earth Orbit. India also offered to make presentations on space manufacturing technologies, connectivity, and exploration beyond the International Space Station.

Prof. Baptiste conveyed France's interest in accelerating existing cooperation and thanked India for a proposed video message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the summit. The French minister is scheduled to visit ISRO facilities in Bengaluru from September 28-30.

India and France have collaborated in space for nearly six decades, including joint satellite missions like Megha-Tropiques and SARAL. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation through innovation, research, and greater private sector involvement.