PM Modi, Macron Elevate India-France Ties to Special Global Strategic Partnership

Modi, Macron Elevate India–France Ties to ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India–France relations are a pillar of global stability in an increasingly uncertain world, as he held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at Lok Bhavan in Maharashtra.

Following the talks, the two leaders announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, signalling a significant upgrade in cooperation across defence, technology and emerging sectors.

“The world is facing a period of uncertainty. In this environment, the India-France partnership is a force for global stability,” Modi said during a joint interaction.

Focus on Technology, Critical Minerals and AI

Modi said both nations have agreed to deepen collaboration in critical minerals, biotechnology and advanced materials — areas seen as crucial for future economic and strategic resilience.

• He announced the launch of multiple joint initiatives, including:
• The Indo-French Centre for AI in Health
• The Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology
• The National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics

In a major defence-industrial push, Modi also confirmed the establishment of an assembly line in India for the French-origin H125 single-engine light utility helicopter.

The Prime Minister said the upgraded partnership combines “France’s technological expertise and India’s scale,” adding that the two countries will work together on trusted and secure technologies through platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Macron: Partnership Built on Trust

Macron described the India–France relationship as unique, anchored in trust, openness and long-term ambition.

“We have decided today to elevate this partnership and give it a new status. We have complete faith in this relationship,” he said, highlighting cooperation over the past eight years in the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence and clean energy sectors.

Next Stop: AI Summit in Delhi

After their engagements in Mumbai, Modi and Macron are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to attend the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.

Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday and was received by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, marking the start of his multi-day visit aimed at strengthening strategic, economic and technological ties between the two nations.