PM Modi Welcomes ‘Dear Friend’ Macron, Says Visit Will Elevate India-France Ties
Horizon 2047 roadmap, Rafale procurement and Indo-Pacific cooperation on agenda
New Delhi, Feb 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday warmly received French President Emmanuel Macron, describing him as a “dear friend” as the French leader began a three day official tour of India. The visiting dignitary arrived in Mumbai shortly after midnight.
At the airport, he was welcomed by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister expressed optimism that the engagement would elevate cooperation across key sectors and reinforce collaboration on global issues. He noted that the discussions in Mumbai and New Delhi would help deepen strategic coordination between the two nations.
Under the Modi Macron India Meeting, delegation level negotiations are scheduled to take place later in the day. The agenda includes advancing the Horizon 2047 roadmap and formally launching the Year of Innovation 2026 initiative.
Defence collaboration is expected to feature prominently, with the proposed Rafale fighter aircraft acquisition likely to come up during deliberations. Broader geopolitical matters, including developments in the Indo-Pacific region, will also be reviewed as both countries continue to expand strategic alignment.
Following his Mumbai engagements, the French leader will travel to the national capital to participate in the India AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam, scheduled from February 16 to 20. The summit is set to bring together global stakeholders to deliberate on emerging trends in artificial intelligence and technology governance.
