Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” following high-level talks in Mumbai.
The two leaders oversaw the signing of 21 agreements spanning defence, space cooperation, clean energy, health, digital science, and advanced technologies, marking a major expansion of India-France relations.
21 Agreements Across Defence, Space and Clean Energy
The newly signed agreements cover key sectors including:
Defence manufacturing and technology transfer
Space collaboration and skills development
Clean energy initiatives
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation
Biotechnology and advanced materials
MSME and startup collaboration
Under the new framework, India and France will jointly establish AI centres in health, digital science, and technology, along with a National Space Skills Centre. France will also work towards easing transit visa requirements to enhance mobility between the two nations.
PM Modi: Partnership for Global Stability
Prime Minister Modi described France as one of India’s oldest and most trusted strategic partners. He said the upgraded partnership reflects shared trust and a common vision for global progress.
“This is not just a strategic agreement, but a partnership that will contribute to global stability and development in an era of uncertainty,” he stated.
Modi highlighted that India and France will collaborate on manufacturing the world’s only helicopter capable of flying at Mount Everest’s altitude, to be produced in India with global export potential.
He also noted that India’s recent ambitious free trade agreement discussions with the European Union (EU) would add momentum to ties with France.
Focus on Innovation, MSMEs and Technology Transfer
The leaders emphasised connecting industries and innovators in defence, clean energy, space, and emerging technologies. A strong network will be developed between startups and MSMEs of both countries to boost innovation and market access.
India and France will deepen cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. The two countries also launched the “Year of Innovation,” enabling Indian startups to access France’s research ecosystem.
Roadmap Horizon 2047 and Annual Review Mechanism
Both sides agreed to work on Roadmap Horizon 2047, outlining long-term strategic cooperation. An annual meeting between the Foreign Ministers of India and France will review the progress of agreements.
The partnership will also focus on education, skill development, and mobility to strengthen people-to-people ties.
President Macron: A Unique and Trusted Relationship
President Macron described India-France relations as “unprecedented and unique,” reaffirming mutual trust and long-term commitment.
He said the partnership would gain new direction through strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, advanced technologies, and MSME and startup collaboration. Technology transfer and joint development projects will remain key pillars of the relationship.
Strengthening Global Initiatives
Both nations reiterated cooperation under global platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Plans were also announced to open a Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in France to promote cultural exchange. With the elevation to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, India and France aim to enhance bilateral cooperation while contributing to global peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
