French President Macron arrives in India to boost strategic ties, attend AI summit

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday, commencing a three-day visit aimed at elevating the longstanding strategic partnership between France and India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Macron for talks Tuesday in India's financial capital, with discussions centered on cementing bilateral ties and expanding cooperation into new and emerging domains, according to an official statement from Modi's office. The leaders will also inaugurate the "India-France Year of Innovation" and exchange views on regional and global issues.

Defense Cooperation and Trade Relations

The visit follows India's recent approval for additional Rafale fighter jet acquisitions, building on the 2020 induction of Dassault's multirole aircraft into the Indian Air Force. Defense chiefs from both nations are scheduled to hold annual dialogue in Bengaluru, expected to renew a decade-long defense pact including joint manufacturing of Hammer missiles. Bilateral trade reached $15 billion in 2024, with defense representing a cornerstone of the relationship established soon after India's 1947 independence.

AI Summit and Strategic Alignment

Following Mumbai engagements, Macron will travel to New Delhi to participate in the AI Impact summit hosted by India, underscoring growing collaboration in technology and innovation. The visit reinforces converging strategic interests between Paris and New Delhi as both nations navigate shifting global alignments and seek to diversify partnerships beyond traditional alliances. Macron's third visit to India since 2024 demonstrates sustained high-level engagement between the two democracies.