Modi, Macron Elevate Ties to Special Global Level
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Feb 17, 2026
- 557
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on Tuesday, where the two leaders elevated bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” and announced ambitious new collaborations, including the joint development of a high-altitude helicopter capable of flying up to the height of Mount Everest.
Addressing a joint press conference, Modi described France as India’s “special partner” and said the upgraded partnership would go beyond trade and defence deals to encompass security, advanced technology, space cooperation, maritime security and major global issues. The India–France Strategic Partnership was originally established in 1998, and the new elevation signals a broader and deeper engagement across sectors.
Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Speech
1. A Long-Standing Personal and Strategic Bond
Modi recalled his strong personal connection with France, noting his visit last year at President Macron’s invitation for the AI Summit. He also mentioned his visit to Marseille, a city linked historically with Indian soldiers and freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.
2. From Strategic to People-Centric Partnership
With the launch of the India-France Innovation Year, Modi said the relationship would expand beyond governments to connect startups, innovators and citizens of both nations.
3. Expanding Cooperation Across Sectors
Both countries will collaborate in defence, clean energy, space, critical minerals, biotechnology and emerging technologies, along with establishing joint innovation centres.
4. A Force for Global Stability
At a time of global uncertainty, Modi said the India-France partnership stands as a pillar of peace and a united front against terrorism.
5. India as a Startup Powerhouse
Highlighting India’s rise as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, he noted that major global corporations are increasingly linked with Indian innovation networks.
Key Highlights from President Macron’s Speech
1. Support for “Make in India”
Macron reaffirmed France’s strong backing of India’s manufacturing push, particularly in defence, including joint development of engines, helicopters, fighter jets and submarines.
2. Beyond Defence Deals
He emphasised that the partnership is rooted in trust and extends across land, sea and air domains—not limited to arms trade.
3. India as a Global Technology Leader
Macron praised India’s growing leadership in innovation and emerging technologies.
4. Elevation to a Higher Strategic Level
He described the relationship as one built on deep trust and now upgraded to a “Special Strategic Partnership.”
5. Commitment to Technology Transfer
France, he said, believes in sharing advanced technology with India and follows a policy of strategic independence.
Later, Macron addressed the India-France Innovation Forum, highlighting that the CEOs of global technology giants such as Alphabet Inc., Microsoft, IBM, Adobe Inc., and Palo Alto Networks are of Indian origin—calling India a leading nation in talent and innovation.
This marks Macron’s fourth visit to India since assuming office. He previously visited in 2018 and returned for the G20 Summit and as Chief Guest for India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2024.
The visit is widely seen as a significant step in deepening India–France cooperation in defence, space, technology and global governance.