Modi’s Warm Welcome to Macron: India-France Partnership to Reach New Heights

New Delhi, February 17, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed enthusiasm for French President Emmanuel Macron’s upcoming visit to India. Commenting on Macron’s post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, PM Modi stated that India is eagerly awaiting his arrival and taking bilateral relations to new heights.French President Emmanuel Macron had announced on X on Monday that he is coming to India. He wrote, “I am coming to India. During my three-day visit to Mumbai-New Delhi, both leaders will give a new direction to the India-France strategic partnership.” Responding to this post, Prime Minister Modi wrote in Hindi, “Welcome to India! India is awaiting your arrival and taking our mutual relations to new heights. I am fully confident that our discussions will strengthen cooperation in various sectors and contribute to global progress. See you in Mumbai and later in Delhi, my dear friend Emmanuel Macron.”This welcoming message reflects the deep friendship between the two leaders. PM Modi and Macron have held several high-level meetings in the past, enhancing cooperation in defense, trade, climate change, and space sectors. France is a major defense partner for India, having strengthened military capabilities through deals like Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines.Macron’s visit is scheduled from February 18 to 20, including meetings with business leaders in Mumbai and bilateral talks in New Delhi. Experts believe new agreements in defense exports, renewable energy, and digital economy could emerge from this visit. Bilateral trade between the two countries crossed 15 billion dollars in 2025, with a target to double this figure.According to the Foreign Ministry, this trip will bolster the India-France ‘Horizon 2047’ agenda, focused on strengthening strategic partnership globally by 2047. PM Modi has previously addressed Macron as ‘my dear friend,’ highlighting their personal rapport.The visit will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also enhance strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions on global challenges like the Ukraine crisis and climate change are also expected.