Narendra Modi Welcomes Emmanuel Macron; AI, Defence and Strategic Ties to Dominate Mumbai Talks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron as he began a three-day official visit to India, signalling renewed momentum in the India–France strategic partnership.
Taking to X, Modi wrote, “Welcome to India! India is delighted to welcome your visit and intends to give new momentum to our strategic partnership. See you very soon in Mumbai, then in Delhi, my dear friend.”
Macron, who arrived in Mumbai with First Lady Brigitte Macron, earlier shared a message from his flight, saying he was travelling with business, industrial, cultural and digital leaders to deepen bilateral cooperation. “En route to India. Together, we will go even further in our cooperation,” he posted.
AI, Defence Deals High on Agenda
Macron’s visit from February 17 to 19 is expected to focus heavily on artificial intelligence collaboration, defence cooperation and long-term strategic alignment.
Talks between the two leaders are likely to include discussions on joint manufacturing initiatives, particularly helicopters and HAMMER precision-guided missiles, as part of efforts to strengthen defence industrial partnerships between the two countries.
Macron is also scheduled to participate in the AI Impact Summit and hold a bilateral summit with Modi in Mumbai before travelling to New Delhi for official engagements.
Warm Reception in Mumbai
The French President was received at Mumbai airport by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This marks Macron’s fourth visit to India, underscoring the growing importance of the India–France partnership in areas ranging from defence and technology to climate and Indo-Pacific cooperation.
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