Mumbai, February 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met for delegation-level talks in Mumbai on Tuesday, marking a significant step in strengthening the India-France strategic partnership. The discussions took place at Maharashtra Lok Bhavan, where both leaders led their respective delegations in talks covering a wide array of mutual interests. This meeting is part of President Macron's fourth official visit to India.
Earlier, PM Modi expressed his "delight" in meeting his close friend, President Macron. On X, the Prime Minister shared a light-hearted update, noting that Macron had enjoyed his morning run in Mumbai, adding that the French President was fond of the city. "It's a delight to meet my friend, President Macron, in Mumbai! He told me he really likes the city and also enjoyed his run earlier in the day!" PM Modi wrote on X.
The meeting at Lok Bhavan focused on key aspects of the enduring India-France strategic partnership, with both leaders engaging in a cordial exchange. The day also began with a unique moment as President Macron joined the morning joggers of Mumbai, surprising locals with his spontaneous run alongside a security team. The peaceful jog proceeded without major disruption, allowing the French President to take in the vibrant spirit of the city.
Later, in a deeply symbolic moment, President Macron, accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. This solemn gesture highlighted the shared struggle against terrorism and the collective resolve to uphold democratic values. Both nations, which have faced the horrors of radicalisation, reaffirmed their commitment to fighting violence and promoting resilience.
PM Modi, ahead of the meeting, welcomed President Macron to India, expressing enthusiasm for advancing the bilateral relationship to new heights. In a post on X, the Prime Minister shared his anticipation for the visit, stating, "Welcome to India! India looks forward to your visit and to advancing our bilateral ties to new heights. I am confident that our discussions will further strengthen cooperation across sectors and contribute to global progress. See you in Mumbai and later in Delhi, my dear friend @EmmanuelMacron."
The high-level French delegation arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday and was warmly welcomed at the airport by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The visit, which runs through February 19, will continue with the leaders traveling to Delhi for the India AI Impact Summit 2026. This landmark summit, held at Bharat Mandapam from February 16 to 20, marks the first global AI summit in the Global South. Its focus on the three foundational pillars of "People, Planet, and Progress" emphasizes future-focused cooperation. President Macron’s participation underscores the growing importance of the India-France partnership in shaping the global technological landscape, building on the groundwork laid during the AI Action Summit co-chaired by PM Modi and President Macron in Paris in February 2025.
