PM Modi and Emmanuel Macron meet in Mumbai for bilateral talks on Rafale jets, AI Summit and India-France defence partnership.
Earlier in the day, Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. (Photo: X/narendramodi)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held crucial bilateral talks in Mumbai on February 17, focusing on defence cooperation, artificial intelligence, and long-term strategic ties.
Macron began his three-day official visit to India with engagements in Mumbai before heading to New Delhi for the AI Impact Summit. The visit highlights the growing depth of the India-France relationship, which both countries describe as a trusted and strategic partnership.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron share a hug as they meet at the Lok Bhavan in Mumbai
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2026
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/jtssPX7ear
One of the key topics of discussion remains defence cooperation, particularly India’s plan to expand its fleet of Rafale fighter jets. India recently confirmed its intention to place a major order for additional Rafale aircraft manufactured by Dassault Aviation.
Reports suggest discussions may include a potential contract for 114 new fighter jets. France already supplies India with advanced defence equipment, including Rafale jets and Scorpene submarines. Defence analysts believe this expanded order could further strengthen military collaboration between the two nations.
The talks also follow the signing of a landmark free trade agreement between India and the European Union in January, described by both sides as the “mother of all deals”.
Macron’s visit also centres on technology and innovation. After completing engagements in Mumbai, he will travel to New Delhi to participate in the AI Impact Summit on February 19.
India and France previously co-chaired the AI Action Summit in February 2025. Artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and science partnerships form an important pillar of the Horizon 2047 roadmap, which outlines long-term cooperation goals between the two countries.
In Mumbai, Macron is scheduled to attend the India-France Innovation Forum and participate in events marking the India-France Year of Innovation and Cultural Commemoration at the Gateway of India.
Earlier in the day, Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The gesture underlined shared concerns about global security and counter-terrorism cooperation.
The Ministry of External Affairs has described Macron’s visit as a reflection of the “mutual trust and depth of the India-France strategic partnership”. Modi had earlier visited France in February 2025, reinforcing diplomatic engagement at the highest level.
France stands among India’s closest European partners, especially in defence, space cooperation, and climate initiatives. The two nations continue to expand collaboration in trade, culture, technology, and energy security.
Macron’s Mumbai visit comes months after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also chose Mumbai for his first official visit, highlighting the city’s growing diplomatic importance.
As bilateral talks progress, both leaders aim to shape a stronger roadmap for defence expansion, technological cooperation, and long-term economic growth under the Horizon 2047 framework.
