French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday, 14 June 2026 congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming the longest-serving Prime Minister of India since Independence, marking the milestone during the inauguration of the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' event in Nice, France. The felicitation came as Modi began the first leg of a two-nation European visit at Macron's invitation.

Macron's Tribute at Bharat Innovates

Speaking at the joint inauguration, President Macron called Modi's presence at the event 'a matter of great honour for France.' 'Prime Minister, I would like to congratulate you for being here, but also because a few days ago you became the Prime Minister with the longest serving time since the independence of India, this long run says a lot about your determination, the strength of your country and its wonderful.... we are very proud that you are here,' Macron said.

The remarks underscored the warmth of the India-France bilateral relationship, which both leaders have described as rooted in shared values, mutual trust, and common interests.

Modi's Vision: India as a Global Innovation Hub

Addressing the innovation-focused forum, Prime Minister Modi said India's innovation ecosystem is rapidly expanding and increasingly contributing to global challenges through technology and entrepreneurship. 'India now acts as a solution contributor rather than a solution consumer,' he said.

Modi stressed that India is innovating at both speed and scale, with an emphasis on sustainable, human-centric solutions. 'Bharat innovates with speed and scale. Bharat innovates for a sustainable future. Bharat innovates for the whole world,' he told the gathering. He added that 'technology for humanity' is the country's guiding priority, and that 'Innovation is in India's DNA.'

Context of the Visit

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Nice on Saturday, 13 June, at the invitation of President Macron. The Nice stop is the first leg of his two-nation tour. He is subsequently scheduled to participate in the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on 16-17 June 2026, where India has been invited as a guest nation.

Historic Milestone

Modi's distinction as India's longest-serving Prime Minister since Independence surpasses a record that had stood for decades. Notably, this milestone arrives as India's global diplomatic footprint continues to expand, with Modi engaging major world leaders across consecutive summits. The recognition from a G7 head of state at a bilateral event amplifies the symbolic weight of the achievement on the international stage.

What Comes Next

The G7 Summit in Evian on 16-17 June will be closely watched for any bilateral outcomes between India and member nations. The 'Bharat Innovates 2026' platform is also expected to yield announcements on India-France technology and innovation partnerships in the coming days.