India and France have significantly expanded their strategic partnership following bilateral discussions between Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron, with agreements spanning defence, energy, technology, education and global governance.
Both leaders described the India–France relationship as a “force for global stability” at a time of geopolitical volatility. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation in defence manufacturing, advanced military platforms and joint production initiatives, reinforcing France’s role as one of India’s key strategic defence partners.
In the energy sector, both sides reaffirmed collaboration in civil nuclear energy, renewable power and green hydrogen development. Discussions also covered resilient supply chains, critical minerals and climate commitments, reflecting a shared emphasis on sustainable growth.
A major announcement came in the education sector, with France easing visa rules for Indian students and reiterating its target of hosting 30,000 Indian students by 2030. The move is expected to deepen academic exchanges and boost talent mobility between the two countries.
Technology and innovation featured prominently in the discussions, including cooperation in artificial intelligence, space research and digital public infrastructure. The two countries are exploring stronger partnerships in semiconductor ecosystems and emerging technologies to reduce dependency on concentrated supply chains.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasising support for a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
With expanding collaboration across strategic sectors, the India–France partnership is positioning itself as a long-term pillar of stability, innovation and shared economic growth.
