Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held comprehensive bilateral discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron at Maharashtra Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, reaffirming the strategic partnership between India and France.
The two leaders greeted each other warmly before commencing formal talks, reflecting the strong personal chemistry and deepening diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Leaders Announce ‘Year of Innovation 2026’
Following the meeting, Prime Minister Modi expressed pleasure at hosting President Macron in Mumbai, noting the French leader’s appreciation for the city.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described India-France relations as a “beautiful partnership,” citing expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
He announced that both leaders would jointly launch the ‘Year of Innovation 2026’, an initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration in emerging technologies, research, and digital transformation.
Jaiswal highlighted that discussions covered a broad agenda, including:
- Digital technology and innovation
- Defence and security cooperation
- Student mobility and cultural exchanges
- Green energy and sustainable development
India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi
After concluding their engagements in Mumbai, PM Modi and President Macron are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to participate in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
The summit, structured around the themes of People, Planet, and Progress, marks the first major global AI event hosted in the Global South. Macron’s presence builds upon earlier cooperation in artificial intelligence, including the AI Action Summit co-chaired by both leaders in Paris in February 2025.
Grand Welcome for French President in Mumbai
President Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday evening and was received at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar were also present.
Earlier, PM Modi welcomed Macron’s visit on social media, expressing confidence that the trip would elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights and contribute to global progress.
Tribute to 26/11 Victims and Public Engagement
During his visit, President Macron surprised residents by joining a morning jog in Mumbai, maintaining his fitness routine despite a packed diplomatic schedule.
Later, President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron paid homage to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, underscoring solidarity and shared commitment against terrorism.
The high-level engagements in Mumbai and New Delhi are expected to further strengthen India-France strategic relations across defence, technology, climate action, and innovation-driven growth.
