On February 17, 2026, PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated their 1998 strategic partnership to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” in Mumbai, aiming to enhance cooperation in defense, AI, space, and nuclear energy. This “special” designation signals a deep, long-term collaboration for global stability.
Modi emphasized the partnership as a stabilizing factor amidst worldwide uncertainty. The upgraded partnership focuses on defence, AI, critical minerals, renewable energy, and advanced materials.
Industrial.
The partnership aims to address global challenges and promote a rules-based international order.
The move strengthens ties to the highest level, positioning both nations as key partners in shaping future global, technological, and security outcomes.
Prime Minister Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday also held bilateral engagements at South Mumbai’s Lok Bhavan and inaugurated the “India-France Year of Innovation 2026”.
Addressing joint press conference with Macron he said that
“India-France partnership knows no boundaries. Our ties stretch from deep oceans to highest mountains,” “Innovation needs collaboration, not isolation..These collaborations, he added, will extend across multiple fields including defence, energy, space, technology and even critical minerals.
Adding as the world goes through a period of uncertainty, the India-France partnership will become a force for global stability… We believe in a multi polar world.
“India and France both believe in democratic values, the rule of law, and a multipolar world. He further added We are unanimous that reform of global institutions will solve global challenges. We will continue to support all efforts for peace in every region, be it Ukraine, West Asia, or the Indo-Pacific. We share a common commitment to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he added.
News Edit KV Raman
