India, France Announce Special Global Strategic Partnership After Modi-Macron Talks

India, France Upgrade Ties to Special Global Strategic Partnership After Modi–Macron Talks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, describing the move as a response to growing global uncertainty.

The announcement came after delegation-level talks at Lok Bhavan in Maharashtra, where both leaders underscored the depth and resilience of India–France ties. “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 address.

Expanding Cooperation in Strategic Sectors

Modi said the two countries have agreed to expand cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology and advanced materials — sectors considered vital for long-term strategic and economic security.

• Several joint initiatives were unveiled, 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 significant defence boost, Modi also announced the setting up of an assembly line in India for the French-origin H125 single-engine light utility helicopters.

He said the upgraded partnership combines “France’s technological excellence and India’s scale,” adding that both nations would collaborate on trusted technologies through global platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

• Macron Emphasises Trust and Ambition
• Macron described the relationship as unique and rooted in trust 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, pointing to close cooperation over the past eight years in areas such as the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence and clean energy.

AI Summit in New Delhi Next

Following their engagements in Mumbai, the two leaders are set 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 official visit focused on strengthening strategic, technological and economic ties between the two nations.