PM Modi and President Macron Forge Enhanced Strategic Partnership During Mumbai Visit
In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated India-France relations to a 'special global strategic partnership' during Macron's three-day visit to India. The announcement came after comprehensive bilateral and delegation-level talks held in Mumbai on Tuesday, marking a new chapter in the longstanding partnership between the two nations.
Symbolic Car Ride and 'Jai Ho' Moment
The day began with a symbolic moment as Prime Minister Modi shared a car ride with President Macron as they traveled together to the India-France Innovation Forum following their official discussions. Macron captured this camaraderie by posting a picture of the two leaders in the vehicle with the caption "Jai Ho," reflecting the warm personal chemistry between them. PM Modi later explained that after concluding talks and press statements at Lok Bhavan, they were proceeding to further engagements including the Innovation Forum.
21 Agreements Signed Across Multiple Sectors
The upgraded partnership was substantiated through the signing of 21 comprehensive agreements and documents aimed at expanding collaboration across critical sectors. Key areas of cooperation include:
- Defence and Security: A significant defence cooperation pact and a joint venture between Bharat Electronics Ltd and French aerospace giant Safran to manufacture Hammer missiles in India
- Critical Minerals: Enhanced cooperation in securing and developing critical mineral resources
- High Technology: Collaboration in advanced technological domains
- Renewable Energy: Partnerships in sustainable energy development
- Healthcare: Expanded cooperation in medical research and healthcare infrastructure
An additional agreement provides for reciprocal deployment of officers between the Indian Army and the French Land Forces, further strengthening military ties.
Aerospace Manufacturing Milestone
Following their talks, the leaders virtually inaugurated an assembly line in Karnataka's Vemagal dedicated to manufacturing H125 helicopters by Airbus. This initiative is expected to significantly strengthen India's aerospace manufacturing ecosystem and create substantial employment opportunities. PM Modi highlighted that the helicopter can operate at extreme altitudes, including near Mount Everest, and will be exported globally, showcasing the partnership's ambitious scope.
'Force for Global Stability' Amid Uncertainty
Addressing the media after their discussions, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the strategic importance of the enhanced partnership. "The world is going through a period of uncertainty. In such an environment, the India-France partnership is a force for global stability. We are combining France's expertise and India's scale," he stated.
The Prime Minister described France as one of India's oldest strategic partners and noted that both sides have infused their relationship with "unprecedented depth and energy." He added, "Based on this trust and shared vision, today we are establishing our relationship as a 'special global strategic partnership' that supports both global stability and progress."
Partnership Without Boundaries
PM Modi poetically captured the expansive nature of the renewed partnership, stating, "In other words, the India-France partnership knows no boundaries; it can reach from deep oceans to the tallest mountain." This statement reflects the comprehensive nature of cooperation that now spans from maritime security to high-altitude operations and beyond.
The upgraded strategic partnership represents a significant milestone in India-France relations, combining France's technological expertise with India's manufacturing scale and strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders characterized the relationship as essential for maintaining global stability amid rising geopolitical tensions, positioning their countries as reliable partners in an increasingly uncertain world.
