New Delhi: Narendra Modi described France as India’s “special partner” and announced that the two countries have decided to upgrade their relationship to a “special global strategic partnership”, signalling deeper cooperation beyond trade and defence deals.
Speaking after talks with Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai, Modi said the upgraded partnership would expand collaboration in security, advanced technology, space, maritime security and major global issues. He added that the strengthened framework reflects the growing trust and shared strategic vision between the two nations.
Macron expressed confidence in India, stating that France is willing to share its most advanced technologies with New Delhi. He said the partnership would not only enhance India’s defence capabilities but also support the ‘Make in India’ initiative through greater technology transfer and joint production.
The meeting focused on boosting bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, energy and critical technologies. Macron arrived in Mumbai early in the day on a three-day visit to India and is scheduled to participate in the upcoming AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.
