India and France Elevate Ties, Launch Year of Innovation During President Macron’s Visit

New Delhi, February 17, 2026 — India and France have significantly upgraded their bilateral relationship, announcing a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” during the official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India from February 17–19, 2026. The visit, undertaken at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coincided with President Macron’s participation in the Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026 and marked his fourth trip to India.

The leaders jointly inaugurated the 2026 India–France Year of Innovation in Mumbai, setting the tone for deeper collaboration across technology, science, healthcare, culture, and education. The new partnership builds on decades of close engagement and aligns with the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, designed to steer cooperation through the centenary of India’s independence and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

A major focus of the discussions was defence and strategic cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to joint research, co-design, and co-production of advanced defence platforms. They welcomed progress in aviation and engine technologies, ongoing partnerships involving leading French and Indian firms, and developments supporting domestic manufacturing under the Make in India initiative. The leaders also highlighted the success of the Scorpène submarine programme and agreed to intensify military exercises and operational exchanges.

Emerging technologies featured prominently, with the announcement of a Joint Advanced Technology Development Group to explore critical and niche areas. Space cooperation received renewed attention, including efforts to enhance space situational awareness and ensure sovereign access to space. In cyberspace, the two countries pledged closer coordination on international norms, cyber resilience, and countering malicious cyber activities.

On economic and industrial ties, India and France welcomed sustained growth in trade and investment. The signing of amendments to the bilateral tax treaty is expected to facilitate business activity and encourage greater cross-border investment. Both countries also committed to building resilient supply chains, especially in critical minerals and rare earths. Cooperation in railways, clean energy, and civil aviation was also advanced, with plans for joint initiatives and technology sharing.

Climate and sustainability formed another pillar of the engagement. The leaders reiterated their support for the Paris Agreement and emphasized science-based climate action. They praised joint efforts through global platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Nuclear energy cooperation was reinforced, with both sides exploring opportunities across research, regulation, and next-generation reactor technologies. Global and regional issues were also discussed. India and France reiterated their support for a rules-based international order, called for urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council, and affirmed cooperation in multilateral forums. The leaders expressed concern over ongoing conflicts, including Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing dialogue, humanitarian assistance, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

People-to-people ties were strengthened through initiatives supporting education, innovation, and mobility. Both sides encouraged academic partnerships, startup exchanges, and cultural collaborations. Expanded digital payments acceptance and simplified travel measures are expected to further boost tourism and business travel.

The Special Global Strategic Partnership signals a new phase in India–France relations, underscoring shared ambitions in security, technology, sustainability, and global governance.