PM Modi Meets Emmanuel Macron, Calls India-France Ties A “Force For Global Stability”

India and France agreed to deepen their bilateral engagement on Tuesday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held wide-ranging talks at Maharashtra's Lok Bhavan in Mumbai.

The leaders reviewed cooperation across strategic, technological and economic sectors and announced a major upgrade in ties, placing the relationship at a higher global level.

Partnership Positioned As A Stabilising Force

During the joint interaction, PM Modi said the decision to elevate relations reflects growing trust between the two countries amid a changing global order.

"The world is facing a period of uncertainty. In this environment, the India-France partnership is a force for global stability," he said.

He described ties between New Delhi and Paris as "special" and said both nations intend to play a constructive international role through closer coordination on major global issues.

Technology, Innovation And Industrial Cooperation

The Prime Minister outlined several new initiatives designed to strengthen collaboration in emerging sectors. India and France will expand cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology and advanced materials.

Among the key announcements were the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology and the National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics.

PM Modi also confirmed that an assembly line for H125 single-engine light utility helicopters of French origin will be established in India, a step expected to boost domestic manufacturing and skill development.

He said the cooperation model benefits both sides. The partnership "brings together France's technological expertise and India's scale," and the countries will also coordinate on trusted technologies through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Macron Highlights Trust And Long-Term Engagement

President Macron underlined the strategic nature of ties, calling the relationship distinctive in its depth and reliability.

"We have decided today to elevate this partnership and give it a new status. We have complete faith in this relationship," he said.

He added that the two countries have worked closely over the last eight years across the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence and clean energy, describing the engagement as based on trust, openness and ambition.

Next Stop: India AI Impact Summit 2026

After their Mumbai meetings, both leaders are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to participate in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, where technology and governance of artificial intelligence will be a key focus.

Macron reached Mumbai late Monday and was welcomed by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, marking the start of a high-profile visit centred on strategic cooperation and advanced technologies.