Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described India–France relations as “special” and a pillar of global stability amid growing international uncertainty, following bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at Lok Bhavan in Maharashtra.
Addressing a joint media interaction, Prime Minister Modi announced that the two nations have agreed to elevate their engagement to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, signalling a deepening of cooperation across strategic and technological domains.
“The world is facing a period of uncertainty. In this environment, the India–France partnership is a force for global stability,” the Prime Minister said.
Expanding Cooperation in Emerging Sectors
Modi noted that New Delhi and Paris are broadening collaboration in critical minerals, biotechnology and advanced materials — sectors viewed as vital to long-term economic resilience and technological leadership.
Among the key announcements was the launch of several joint institutional initiatives, including:
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The Indo-French Centre for AI in Health
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The Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology
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The National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics
In a significant boost to defence and aerospace cooperation, the Prime Minister also confirmed the establishment of an assembly line in India for the French-origin H125 single-engine light utility helicopter, aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Modi described the partnership as one that “brings together France’s technological expertise and India’s scale,” adding that both nations would advance collaboration in trusted and secure technologies through multilateral platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
Macron Highlights Trust-Based Partnership
President Macron characterised the India–France relationship as unique, rooted in trust, openness and shared 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 sustained cooperation over the past eight years in areas including the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence and clean energy.
Following their engagements in Mumbai, the two leaders are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to participate in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
President Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday and was received by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The latest elevation of ties underscores the growing depth of India–France engagement, as both nations seek to strengthen strategic autonomy and reinforce multilateral cooperation in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
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