PM Modi on Tuesday described India–France relations as “special” and a pillar of global stability at a time of mounting international uncertainty, following his bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at Lok Bhavan in Maharashtra.
Speaking at a joint interaction, PM Modi announced that New Delhi and Paris have agreed to elevate their ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, underlining the growing depth and ambition of the relationship. “The world is passing through a phase of uncertainty. In such a scenario, the India–France partnership acts as a force for global stability,” the Prime Minister said.
He noted that cooperation between the two countries is being expanded in future-facing sectors such as critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. As part of this push, Modi unveiled a series of joint initiatives, including the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and a National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics. He also announced that an assembly line for French-origin H125 single-engine light utility helicopters will be set up in India.
Describing the partnership as a blend of “France’s technological expertise and India’s scale,” Modi said both sides would work closely on trusted and sustainable technologies through platforms like the International Solar Alliance and the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor.
President Macron, in his remarks, called the India–France relationship unique, rooted in trust, openness, and shared ambition. He said the decision to upgrade the partnership reflects the confidence both nations have in each other, noting their close collaboration over the past eight years in areas ranging from the Indo-Pacific and artificial intelligence to clean energy.
