Do French Companies Trust in the India Growth Story? Piyush Goyal Explains
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Synopsis
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has voiced strong support for the partnership between India and France. At the India-France CEO Forum, he highlighted the significant potential for collaboration in sectors like technology, AI, and education, showcasing the unwavering faith that French companies have in India's growth narrative.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened partnerships between India and France are essential.
- Collaboration in technology and AI is a priority.
- Joint working groups will drive innovation.
- Fast-track mechanisms will facilitate trade.
- Both countries aim to increase bilateral trade significantly.
Paris, June 3 (NationPress) Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal spoke at the India-France CEO Forum on Tuesday, addressing numerous facets of cooperation between India and France, including technology, artificial intelligence, education, and startups.
In a message on the X social media platform, Goyal emphasized the confidence French companies have in the growth narrative of India.
“Today, I addressed the India-France CEO Forum Small Group Meeting in Paris alongside French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad @LaurentSMartin,” remarked the Union Minister.
Throughout the interactive session, which included representatives from both Indian and French businesses, we discussed various dimensions of India-France collaboration such as technology, AI, education, and startups,” he noted.
Goyal further reiterated that French enterprises have faith in the India story and that both nations are dedicated to enhancing economic and trade relations while building a smarter future together.
The minister also held a fruitful discussion with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
He stressed India's resolve to support a fair, inclusive, and rules-based multilateral trading system.
Additionally, he met with Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid Al-Qasabi, discussing ways to bolster bilateral trade, seek new investment opportunities, and fortify their economic partnership.
Earlier, Piyush Goyal expressed that India and France need to collaborate closely to strengthen their bilateral economic ties, as there exists significant potential to elevate trade between the two nations from the current $15 billion.
Addressing the India-France CEO Forum, he stated that both countries should pursue deeper cooperation in emerging and strategic sectors.
He proposed the establishment of joint working groups within the private sector via the CEO Forum to explore partnerships in artificial intelligence, tourism, manufacturing, and global capability centers.
Goyal also revealed that India and France would implement a fast-track mechanism at the ambassadorial level to assist businesses in overcoming trade and regulatory challenges.
"This initiative will enable us to discover new trade avenues and assist one another in navigating regulatory hurdles," he commented.
Point of View
The dialogue between India and France, as articulated by Piyush Goyal, reflects a shared commitment to elevating bilateral economic relations. The emphasis on strategic sectors and collaboration indicates a proactive approach to capitalize on mutual strengths, which is vital for both nations in today's dynamic global economy.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the focus of the India-France CEO Forum?
The India-France CEO Forum focused on enhancing cooperation in technology, AI, education, and startups, emphasizing the commitment of both nations to improve economic and trade relations.
Who attended the India-France CEO Forum?
The forum was attended by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade Laurent Martin, and various representatives from Indian and French companies.
What initiatives were proposed at the forum?
Minister Goyal proposed forming joint working groups in the private sector and establishing a fast-track mechanism at the ambassadorial level to overcome trade and regulatory hurdles.
