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New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs announced on Tuesday that French President Emmanuel Macron will be on a three-day visit to India starting February 17. During this official visit, Macron will hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. ( PM Modi.) The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the two leaders will discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in various areas. He will also participate in the AI Impact Summit.
In addition, the two leaders will discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest, including cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that Prime Minister Modi and Macron will be in Mumbai to jointly inaugurate the ‘India-France Innovation Year’.
The Horizon 2047 Roadmap will be discussed.
Announcing the French leader’s visit, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “The two leaders will discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas set out in the ‘Horizon 2047 Roadmap.'” The ‘Horizon Roadmap’ was unveiled after extensive talks between Modi and Macron in Paris in July 2023. It aims to strengthen bilateral relations, including trade and investment.
The Ministry of External Affairs said, “This visit follows Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France in February 2025 and reflects the mutual trust and depth of the India-France strategic partnership, as well as the shared commitment of both countries to further deepen it.” The bilateral Innovation Year will focus on joint programs related to innovation in various sectors, including culture, trade, and technology.
Defense deal may be discussed
Another important aspect of Macron’s visit is that the Indian Air Force’s proposal to purchase 114 more Rafale fighter jets is expected to be presented to the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) before the French President’s arrival. This defense project, costing over ₹2 lakh crore, requires that more than 60% of the fighter jet components be manufactured in India. If approved, it would significantly expand the Indian Air Force’s existing fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft and the 26 more ordered by the Navy.
