Leaders to review strategic partnership during Mumbai, Delhi meetings
February 17, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron as he arrived in India, expressing confidence that bilateral ties would reach “new heights.” In a post on X, Modi said he looked forward to advancing cooperation across sectors and strengthening the India-France partnership. Macron landed in Mumbai ahead of scheduled talks with the Prime Minister, where both leaders are set to review progress under the strategic partnership framework. Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis received the French President at the airport.
Earlier, Macron posted that he was en route to India for a three-day visit spanning Mumbai and New Delhi, aimed at deepening the strategic partnership. He noted that he was accompanied by business leaders and representatives from economic, industrial, cultural and digital sectors, calling them key stakeholders in boosting bilateral cooperation. The French President said the visit would further strengthen ties between the two nations.
Macron’s visit, from February 17 to 19, comes at Modi’s invitation and includes participation in the AI Impact Summit hosted by India, along with a bilateral summit in Mumbai. The meetings are expected to focus on expanding collaboration in defence, technology, trade and global governance. This marks Macron’s fourth visit to India and his first trip to Mumbai.