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17 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
International RelationsNEWS

Modi and Macron to Discuss Strategic Ties in Mumbai

Modi and Macron to meet in Mumbai to strengthen strategic partnership.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai for an official visit to India. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries and diversifying it into new areas. They will also exchange views on regional and global issues and launch the 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026'.

Key Facts

1.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai for an official visit to India.

2.

Macron will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai.

3.

The leaders will discuss strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

4.

They will diversify the partnership into new areas.

5.

They will exchange views on regional and global issues.

6.

They will launch the 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026'.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: Bilateral relations, international agreements

2.

Connects to India's foreign policy, energy security, and defense strategy

3.

Potential for questions on India's strategic partnerships and their impact

In Simple Words

The leaders of France and India are meeting to talk about how their countries can work together. They want to make their relationship stronger and find new things they can do together.

India Angle

This meeting can lead to new projects and collaborations that could bring jobs and technology to India. It could affect businesses, research, and even the products we use every day.

For Instance

Think of it like two companies partnering to create a new product. They combine their strengths to make something better than either could alone.

These talks can lead to changes that affect the economy, technology, and even how India interacts with the rest of the world.

India and France are meeting to strengthen ties and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

Visual Insights

India-France Strategic Partnership: Key Locations

This map highlights Mumbai, where Modi and Macron will meet, and France, showcasing the geographical context of the India-France strategic partnership.

Loading interactive map...

📍Mumbai📍France
More Information

Background

The strategic partnership between India and France has evolved significantly over the past few decades. A key milestone was the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement in 1998, which formalized cooperation in various sectors including defense, nuclear energy, and space. This agreement laid the foundation for enhanced collaboration and mutual trust between the two nations. France has been a consistent supporter of India's rise on the global stage. Notably, France was among the first countries to back India's claim for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Furthermore, France has played a crucial role in facilitating technology transfers and defense collaborations, contributing to India's strategic autonomy. The annual summits and ministerial dialogues between the two countries provide platforms for regular engagement and review of the bilateral relations. The India-France civil nuclear agreement, signed in 2008, marked a significant step in energy cooperation. This agreement allowed for the supply of French nuclear reactors to India, supporting India's efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The agreement also paved the way for collaboration in nuclear research and development, further strengthening the strategic partnership.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India and France have deepened their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries share concerns about maintaining a rules-based order and freedom of navigation in the region. Joint naval exercises, such as the Varuna exercise, have become a regular feature of their defense cooperation, enhancing interoperability and maritime security. India and France are also collaborating on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. Both nations are committed to the goals of the Paris Agreement and are working together on initiatives related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. This collaboration extends to platforms like the International Solar Alliance (ISA), where they are jointly promoting solar energy deployment in developing countries. Looking ahead, India and France are expected to further expand their cooperation in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space exploration. The 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026' is likely to foster greater collaboration in research and development, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship, driving innovation and economic growth in both countries.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the strategic partnership between India and France: 1. The Strategic Partnership Agreement between India and France was signed in 1998. 2. France has consistently opposed India's bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council. 3. The 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026' aims to foster collaboration in research and development. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.1 and 3 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Strategic Partnership Agreement between India and France was indeed signed in 1998, laying the foundation for enhanced cooperation. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: France has consistently SUPPORTED India's bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The 'India-France Year of Innovation 2026' does aim to foster collaboration in research and development, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

2. In the context of India-France cooperation, consider the following statements: 1. The Varuna exercise is a joint military exercise between India and France. 2. The India-France civil nuclear agreement was signed in 2018. 3. India and France are collaborating within the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to promote solar energy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 3 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Varuna exercise is indeed a joint military exercise between India and France, enhancing interoperability and maritime security. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The India-France civil nuclear agreement was signed in 2008, not 2018. Statement 3 is CORRECT: India and France are collaborating within the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to promote solar energy deployment in developing countries. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the India-France strategic partnership?

  • A.France was among the first countries to support India's claim for a permanent seat in the UNSC.
  • B.The India-France civil nuclear agreement allows for the supply of French nuclear reactors to India.
  • C.The India-France strategic partnership was established in 2008.
  • D.India and France cooperate on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
Show Answer

Answer: C

Option C is NOT correct: The India-France strategic partnership was established in 1998, not 2008. France has been a consistent supporter of India's rise on the global stage, including its claim for a permanent seat in the UNSC. The civil nuclear agreement allows for the supply of French nuclear reactors to India, and both countries cooperate on climate change and sustainable development.

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