PM Modi and President Macron discuss India-France strategic ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at Villa Kerylos in Nice on June 14, 2026. This marked their first meeting since India-France relations were elevated to a 'Special Global Strategic Partnership' earlier this year. Discussions focused on defense, space, trade, and innovation.

The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress in defense collaboration, agreeing to intensify efforts in co-design, co-development, and co-production of advanced technologies. Space cooperation was highlighted, with plans to expand private sector involvement and collaborate on human spaceflight and situational awareness. Civil nuclear energy opportunities under India's SHANTI Act were also discussed.

Trade and economic ties were reviewed under the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, with a goal to double bilateral trade within five years. Both leaders emphasized the importance of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and agreed to enhance cooperation in SMEs, aviation, and railways. A Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics will be established in Kanpur.

Innovation took center stage with the adoption of the 'Innovation Roadmap 2030' and the creation of a Joint India-France AI Working Group. The leaders jointly inaugurated Bharat Innovates in Nice and appreciated UPI's expansion in France. They also welcomed 19 agreements signed between innovation institutions of both countries.

Cultural and educational exchanges were discussed, including visa-free transit for Indians at French airports and mutual recognition of educational qualifications. PM Modi invited French universities to open campuses in India. The talks concluded with a shared commitment to deepen ties and advance global peace and stability.

Key Points

• PM Modi met President Macron in Nice on June 14, 2026.
• India-France ties elevated to 'Special Global Strategic Partnership'.
• Focus on defense, space, trade, and innovation cooperation.
• Adoption of 'Innovation Roadmap 2030' and AI Working Group creation.
• Visa-free transit for Indians at French airports operationalized.

FAQ

What was the purpose of PM Modi's meeting with President Macron?

The meeting aimed to strengthen India-France ties in defense, trade, space, innovation, and cultural exchanges.

What agreements were made regarding innovation?

Both leaders adopted the 'Innovation Roadmap 2030' and agreed to create a Joint India-France AI Working Group.

Source: Press Information Bureau (Govt. of India) press release, 14 JUN 2026. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272748