Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that India and Monaco are looking to expand economic cooperation across several strategic sectors, including the blue economy, sustainability, innovation, and emerging technologies. Sharing details of his recent engagement on social media platform X, Goyal revealed that he met with His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco to discuss opportunities for strengthening bilateral ties. During the meeting, the two sides explored ways to deepen collaboration in future-focused sectors that are expected to drive economic growth and technological advancement.

According to Goyal, discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in areas such as sustainable development, innovation-led growth, marine-based economic activities, and next-generation technologies. He expressed confidence that the relationship between India and Monaco would continue to grow stronger in the coming years.

The minister also briefed Prince Albert II about Bharat Innovates 2026, India's flagship innovation event being held in Nice. The initiative showcases the country's dynamic startup ecosystem, technological capabilities, and innovation-driven industries while creating opportunities for international collaboration and partnerships.

In a separate address during the concluding session of Bharat Innovates 2026, Goyal encouraged the nearly 3,000 shortlisted innovators participating in the event to contribute ideas for strengthening India's deep-tech ecosystem. He said the government is keen to gather feedback directly from entrepreneurs and innovators to help shape future policies, industry partnerships, and trade opportunities. Highlighting the government's commitment to advanced technology sectors, Goyal noted that the second edition of the Startup Fund of Funds will largely focus on supporting deep-tech ventures and innovators. The move is aimed at accelerating the development of cutting-edge technologies and strengthening India's position as a global innovation hub.

The minister also urged participants to provide practical suggestions on how the Ministry of Commerce and Industry can help startups commercialize their products, build domestic and international partnerships, and benefit from India's expanding network of free trade agreements (FTAs). He encouraged innovators to submit concise recommendations after the event, assuring them that their inputs would receive attention at the highest levels of government. The feedback, he said, would play an important role in creating a more supportive environment for technology-driven entrepreneurship and global business expansion. The discussions and initiatives underline India's growing focus on innovation-led growth while strengthening international partnerships with countries such as Monaco in sectors that are expected to shape the future global economy.