What Discussions Are Taking Place Between PM Modi and President Macron in Mumbai?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Mumbai, Feb 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are engaged in a bilateral dialogue at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai on Tuesday.
Present at the meeting were External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, and several other high-ranking officials.
The two leaders exchanged warm greetings prior to commencing their discussions.
“It’s a pleasure to reconnect with my friend, President Macron here in Mumbai! He shared his admiration for the city and mentioned enjoying his morning run,” PM Modi shared on X.
As per the statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the agenda for the talks includes a thorough evaluation of progress made under the India-France Strategic Partnership.
The conversation is anticipated to emphasize enhancing the strategic alliance and expanding collaboration into innovative and future-focused sectors. Furthermore, the leaders will discuss vital regional and global matters, as stated by the PMO.
Later, PM Modi and President Macron will inaugurate the 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026' together. This event will also feature speeches directed at business leaders, start-up creators, researchers, and innovators from both nations.
In a show of solidarity with India, President Macron honored the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, which included two French nationals. France reiterated its strong condemnation of terrorism and its support for India in combating this global issue.
Earlier, PM Modi offered a warm welcome to Macron upon his arrival in India, expressing optimism that enhanced India-France collaboration will foster global advancements. Accompanying President Macron is First Lady Brigitte Macron.
Upon his arrival at Mumbai airport, President Macron received a cordial welcome from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Governor Acharya Devvrat.
PM Modi, in a post on X, conveyed, “India eagerly anticipates your visit and aims to elevate our bilateral relations. I am confident our discussions will further solidify cooperation in various domains and facilitate global progress.”
“Looking forward to seeing you in Mumbai and subsequently in Delhi, my esteemed friend Emmanuel Macron,” PM Modi added.
This visit by President Macron is in response to an invitation from PM Modi to participate in the AI Impact Summit hosted by India.
This visit marks President Macron's fourth trip to India and his inaugural official engagement in Mumbai. It follows PM Modi’s visit to France in February 2025, underlining the mutual trust and depth of the Strategic Partnership while showcasing the commitment of both nations to further deepen it.