PM Modi, French President Macron Hold Key Talks On Ukraine, Gaza & Strategic Ties

In a significant diplomatic development, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, sharing his assessment of recent high-level meetings between US, European, and Ukrainian leaders, as well as discussing the situation in Gaza.

The call follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s earlier communication with PM Modi regarding his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, underlining India’s central role in ongoing geopolitical dialogues.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the two leaders exchanged views on ‘ongoing efforts for peaceful resolution of conflicts in Ukraine and the West Asia region’.

Macron specifically shared details of meetings in Washington involving President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Had a very good conversation with my friend President Macron. Exchanged views on efforts for peaceful resolution of conflicts in Ukraine and in West Asia. Reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen the India-France strategic partnership.”

Macron also posted on X, noting, “I have just spoken with Prime Minister @NarendraModi. We coordinated our positions on the war in Ukraine in order to move towards a just and lasting peace, with strong guarantees for Ukraine and Europe’s security. On trade issues, we agreed to strengthen our economic exchanges and our strategic partnership in all areas — this is the key to our sovereignty and independence.”

Expanding Strategic Partnership

The leaders also reviewed progress in areas including trade, defence, civil nuclear energy, and technology.

The PMO highlighted France’s support for the early conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which has long been under negotiation.

Macron reaffirmed support for India’s hosting of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi in 2026, following up on February’s AI Action Summit in Paris.

Both countries also pledged closer cooperation in global forums, with France preparing for the G7 presidency and India set to chair BRICS in 2026.

The call reflects the deepening of India-France ties amid a complex global environment, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to multilateralism, peace, and strategic autonomy.

Also Read: Poverty Reduction & Equality At The Heart Of Viksit Bharat Vision