Prime Minister and French President Emmanuel Macron announce deeper cooperation in defence, trade, innovation and global stability during joint press statement in Mumbai.
India and France have strengthened their long-standing partnership during a joint press statement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai.
The meeting took place during President Macron’s visit to India for the AI Impact Summit in 2026. The Prime Minister warmly welcomed the French leader to Mumbai, calling him a dear friend and highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.
The Prime Minister recalled his earlier visit to Marseille, France’s largest port city, where Indian soldiers first stepped onto European soil during the First World War. He also remembered freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who had attempted a daring escape in Marseille during India’s freedom struggle.
During the talks, both leaders announced the elevation of India-France ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership.” The Prime Minister said the partnership is not only strategic but also important for global stability and progress during uncertain times.
A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of a helicopter assembly line in India. The Prime Minister said that India and France will jointly manufacture the world’s only helicopter capable of flying at the height of Mount Everest. The helicopter will be produced in India and exported globally.
The leaders also welcomed a major Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union, calling 2026 a turning point in India-Europe relations. They signed an agreement to avoid double taxation, which will boost trade, investment, and business mobility between the two countries.
The two sides launched the India-France Year of Innovation to strengthen people-to-people connections. The initiative will promote cooperation in defence, clean energy, space, and emerging technologies. Both countries plan to connect industries, innovators, startups, MSMEs, students, and researchers. New joint innovation centres will also be established.
India and France further expanded cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. New initiatives include the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics.
The Prime Minister said that in a world facing uncertainty, the India-France partnership stands as a force for global stability. He mentioned joint efforts in trusted technologies and cooperation through the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to democratic values, rule of law, and a multipolar world. They called for reforms in global institutions to better address global challenges. The leaders also expressed support for peace efforts in Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region. They reiterated their joint commitment to fight terrorism in all forms.
Cultural ties were also highlighted. India and France have cooperated in projects such as the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum and will now work together on the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal. India also announced plans to open a Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in France to strengthen cultural connections.
The Prime Minister thanked President Macron for his strong commitment to the India-France partnership and expressed confidence that the new chapter in bilateral ties will promote global stability and shared prosperity.
Source: PMO
