The Power of Belonging: 45 Years of The Art of Living
From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Imphal to Indore, the scale of the gathering at The Art of Living International Centre reflected the extraordinary breadth of his influence across public life.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron today inaugurated the India–France Innovation Forum. PM Modi said that with the launch of the India-France Year of Innovation, both countries are transforming their strategic partnership into a Partnership of the People. He highlighted that the goal of the initiative is to strengthen people-to-people connections.
Addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai, the two leaders announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership,” unveiling new defence manufacturing, technology, and education initiatives during the conference.
Advertisement
At the meet, PM Modi hailed the strong commitment that India and France hold towards democratic values, the rule of law, and a multipolar world. Citing international challenges amid global uncertainties, the Prime Minister stressed that the need of the hour is to reform global institutions. He said that India and France will continue to support all efforts for peace in every region, be it Ukraine, West Asia, or the Indo-Pacific. PM Modi also highlighted that both countries share a common commitment to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Advertisement
PM Modi said, “The strategic partnership between the two countries is one of the oldest, and with the help of President Macron, we have deepened the ties and given it more energy in recent times. Based on this trust and vision, we are elevating our relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. This partnership is not just strategic. In this era of unpredictable global dynamics, this partnership will provide global stability and progress.”
#WATCH | Mumbai: PM Narendra Modi says, “India and France both believe in democratic values, the rule of law, and a multipolar world. We are unanimous that reform of global institutions will solve global challenges. We will continue to support all efforts for peace in every… pic.twitter.com/xSjRyCJFZh
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2026
The French President expressed gratitude for extending a warm welcome on his fourth official visit to India. Calling the bilateral relationship between India and France truly remarkable and unique, Macron said, “We have also decided today to elevate this partnership to a Special Strategic Partnership, granting it a new status.”
Praising Indian leadership at the India-France Innovation Forum in Mumbai, the French President said that it is no longer a future aspiration but a global reality across several high-profile industries. Citing the presence of Indian CEOs leading major international corporations, including Alphabet Inc. and Microsoft at the event, Macron called it a reflection of this growing influence. He said, “India has moved beyond participation to emerge as a key driver of global innovation. This strategic partnership recognises the historic friendship between the two nations and underscores their shared vision for a collaborative future.”
#WATCH | Mumbai: French President Emmanuel Macron says, “I thank you for your warm welcome on my fourth official visit to India… The bilateral relationship between India and France is truly remarkable and unique. This relationship is one of trust, openness, and ambition. We… pic.twitter.com/QHL8Om874R
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2026
Significant boost to defence and aerospace collaboration
At the press meet, PM Modi announced that the two countries will jointly manufacture in India a helicopter capable of operating at extreme altitudes, including the heights of Mount Everest.
As part of the expanding partnership, the leaders announced the launch of three new institutions: the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and the National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics. The centres are expected to facilitate joint research, innovation, and skills training, particularly in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and aerospace engineering—areas seen as critical to both nations’ long-term competitiveness.
“We are combining France’s expertise and India’s scale. We are developing trusted technologies. We will ensure human development through the International Solar Alliance, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and joint development projects, and will continue to strengthen efforts for stability and prosperity through multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy,” Modi said.
Advertisement
