French Prez Macron Arrives In India To Deepen Strategic Partnership, Launch Year Of Innovation With PM Modi

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in India on Tuesday for a three-day official visit aimed at deepening the India–France strategic partnership and expanding cooperation in emerging sectors. He was welcomed at Mumbai airport by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Governor Acharya Devvrat.

According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral talks with Macron and jointly launch the India–France Year of Innovation 2026. The ministry said the visit is expected to impart further momentum to the vibrant strategic partnership between the two countries.

Before departing for India, Macron stated on social media that he was travelling from Mumbai to New Delhi with business leaders and representatives from economic, industrial, cultural and digital sectors, underscoring the tangible ties between the two nations. He added that both sides would further advance cooperation during the visit.

Bilateral Talks And Strategic Review

Prime Minister Modi and President Macron are scheduled to meet in Mumbai to assess progress under the India–France Strategic Partnership and exchange views on key regional and global developments.

At approximately 3:15 pm, the two leaders will hold bilateral talks at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai. The Prime Minister’s Office said discussions will include a comprehensive review of advancements in the partnership, with a focus on strengthening strategic ties and expanding collaboration in future-oriented sectors.

Macron’s visit comes at Modi’s invitation to participate in the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on February 19. Later on Tuesday, at around 5:15 p.m., the two leaders will jointly inaugurate the India–France Year of Innovation 2026 and address business leaders, start-up founders, researchers and innovators from both countries.