Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the India-France relationship as a force for global stability in an increasingly uncertain world. He stated this during a joint press briefing following the bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai today. Prime Minister Modi emphasised that the partnership has evolved beyond traditional diplomacy into a “Partnership of the People”, specifically highlighting the launch of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the partnership is a trusted anchor for peace. He described France as an indispensable partner in the Indian Ocean region. The Prime Minister stated that the India-France Year of Innovation is the centerpiece of their 2026 roadmap. He stressed that innovation doesn't happen in isolation, but through collaboration. He said the goal is to link Indian and French startups, MSMEs, and research centres to solve global challenges in clean energy and digital health.
The Prime Minister highlighted the inauguration of the Airbus H125 helicopter assembly line in India as a prime example of the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision. With the meeting coinciding with the AI Impact Summit 2026, Prime Minister Modi highlighted a shared commitment to developing ‘sovereign AI’ that is safe, secure, and beneficial to the Global South.
Speaking on the occasion, French President Macron emphasised that the India-France relationship has reached a level of mutual trust that is unique in the world today. He said, from the deep oceans to the highest mountains, the partnership between the two countries knows no boundaries.
He said they are not just partners but two nations that share a vision for a sovereign, independent, and multipolar world. He hailed the inauguration of the Airbus H125 helicopter assembly line, the first of its kind in India. This facility will produce aircraft capable of operating in the world’s most extreme environments.
Launching the official India-France Year of Innovation, President Macron emphasised that the two nations are no longer just trading goods but trading ideas. He announced new incentives for Indian tech talent and startups to collaborate with French counterparts, particularly in Green Tech and Space.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi and French President Macron held bilateral and delegation-level talks at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai. The two leaders discussed strategic cooperation between India and France across key sectors, including defence, security, trade and cultural exchange.
The French President paid tribute to the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack at the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, reaffirming solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism. In a message on a social media platform, President Macron said France stands with India in the face of terrorism, unity and determination, extending support to the families and loved ones of the victims.
President Macron also interacted with prominent personalities from Indian cinema, highlighting the cultural ties between the two nations.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai early this morning on a three-day official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the AI Impact Summit.
