17.02.2026: India–France Relations Elevated to ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’ Status – Announcement by Narendra Modi
India–France Relations Elevated to ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’ Status
– Announcement by Narendra Modi
Mumbai, February 17: In the evolving global scenario, reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening global stability, prosperity and a rules-based international order, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India–France relations will be elevated to a new status of ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’.
During the Mumbai visit of the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, a bilateral meeting was held between Prime Minister Modi and President Macron at Lok Bhavan. Addressing the media thereafter, both leaders expressed their resolve to take bilateral cooperation to new heights. On the occasion, they virtually inaugurated the assembly line of Tata Advanced Systems for the Airbus H125 helicopter in India. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and delegations from both countries were also present.
Prime Minister Modi stated that India–France relations are founded on trust. France is among India’s oldest strategic partners, and under President Macron’s leadership, this partnership has gained unprecedented momentum and energy. In today’s unstable global environment, he noted, this partnership is not merely strategic but one that contributes to global stability and progress.
Describing the inauguration of the helicopter assembly line as a symbol of mutual trust, Prime Minister Modi said that the only helicopter capable of flying up to the height of Mount Everest will now be manufactured in India and exported to global markets. This reflects the depth of the partnership — from the depths of the oceans to the highest mountains.
Prime Minister Modi further stated that the year 2026 will be decisive for India–Europe relations. The recently concluded Free Trade Agreement with the European Union will significantly boost India–France trade ties. Under the ‘India–France Years of Innovation’ initiative, joint innovation centers will be established in sectors such as defence, clean energy, space, and emerging technologies for industries, startups, MSMEs, students, and researchers. Cooperation will also be expanded in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. He announced the establishment of the Indo-French Center for AI in Health, the Indo-French Center for Digital Science and Technology, and a National Centre for Aeronautics Skill Development.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that both India and France believe in democratic values, the rule of law, and multilateralism. He reiterated that reforming global institutions is essential to addressing global challenges. He expressed support for all efforts toward peace in Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region. Both nations share a commitment to eliminating all forms of terrorism. Highlighting the importance of strengthening cultural exchanges, he also announced that a ‘Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre’ will soon be established in France.
Prime Minister Modi called upon President Macron to continue working together for global stability and prosperity.
France–India Partnership Based on Mutual Trust and Openness
– Emmanuel Macron
President Emmanuel Macron stated that the India–France partnership is growing stronger, founded on mutual trust, openness, and shared ambition. Both countries have adopted the Special Global Strategic Partnership to elevate relations to the next level. They also share common positions in technology, defence, and trade cooperation.
At the international level, he reaffirmed France’s strong support for free trade and for the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement. France and India also share a common stance on combating terrorism and condemning terrorist organizations.
The India–France partnership is stable, reliable, and beneficial to the people of both nations, he said, adding that both countries are determined to make it even more impactful in the future. A France–India Innovation Network, digital platforms, and a joint center for Artificial Intelligence in healthcare will soon be established.
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