PM Modi and President Macron strengthen India-France ties during visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their strong bilateral ties and commitment to global cooperation during Modi’s two-day visit to France. The two leaders highlighted significant progress in their partnership and vowed to accelerate it further.

Key Discussions and Agreements

In their talks, Modi and Macron addressed critical global issues, including the Indo-Pacific, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and international security. They also focused on strengthening strategic collaboration in defense, nuclear energy, space, and technology. The leaders emphasized the importance of innovation, particularly in light of the recent AI Action Summit and the upcoming India-France Year of Innovation in 2026.

On the economic front, they discussed boosting trade and investment ties, welcoming the findings of the 14th India-France CEOs Forum.

Strengthening Strategic and Defense Cooperation

Defense collaboration was a key highlight, with both sides acknowledging progress in India’s construction of Scorpene submarines, including the integration of DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. They celebrated the commissioning of the sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine, INS Vagsheer, in January 2025.

Discussions also covered joint initiatives on missiles, helicopter engines, and jet engines. PM Modi encouraged France to explore acquiring India's Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system, marking another step in deepening defense ties. President Macron welcomed India’s inclusion as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program, reinforcing cooperation in advanced military technology.

Commitment to Global Peace and Security

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region. They also strongly condemned cross-border terrorism and emphasized the need to cut off financial networks supporting terrorism. The two countries pledged to work together in global initiatives like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the No Money for Terror (NMFT) platform to combat terror financing.

A Personal Touch to the Visit

During the visit, President Macron hosted PM Modi for a private dinner in Marseille, underlining their strong personal rapport. Together, they inaugurated India’s new Consulate General in Marseille and toured the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor facility, symbolizing deeper scientific collaboration.

UN Security Council and Multilateral Cooperation

Modi and Macron called for reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to make it more effective in addressing global challenges. France reaffirmed its strong support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UNSC. The leaders also discussed limiting the use of veto power in cases of mass atrocities.

Looking Ahead

Modi and Macron reaffirmed their shared vision for a stronger partnership that spans trade, defense, technology, and global governance. Their commitment to working closely on international security, innovation, and economic growth underscores the deepening bond between India and France.