Indian PM Modi, French Prez Macron Discuss Ukraine, West Asia Conflicts; Confirm Strategic Ties Ahead of Key Summits
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday held a phone conversation to coordinate positions on global crises, including the Ukraine conflict and the situation in West Asia, while reaffirming their commitment to deepening the India–France strategic partnership.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi described the conversation as “very good” and said the two leaders exchanged views on ongoing global efforts for peaceful conflict resolution. “Had a very good conversation with my friend President Macron.
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| File Photo Source: French President Emmanuel Macron |
President Macron, in a reciprocal post, said that the call focused on aligning positions to ensure “a just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, with “strong guarantees for Ukraine and Europe's security.”
He added that both sides agreed to enhance economic and strategic cooperation across sectors, calling it “key to sovereignty and independence.”
The leaders also discussed preparations for upcoming multilateral summits, as India prepares to host the BRICS Presidency and France takes over the G7 Presidency in 2026.
Referring to the AI Action Summit held in Paris earlier this year, Macron confirmed both sides would continue close collaboration for the success of the AI Impact Summit to be hosted by India in 2026.
Thursday’s exchange builds on growing momentum in bilateral ties. Prime Minister Modi visited France in February 2025 for a three-day official visit, during which he co-chaired the AI Action Summit alongside President Macron.
The visit included engagements in artificial intelligence, commerce, energy, and cultural sectors, with both countries announcing wide-ranging cooperation agreements.
Following that visit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described India–France ties as reaching “new heights,” noting that the two leaders held extensive one-on-one talks, including aboard the French presidential aircraft.
A joint statement issued after the visit reiterated shared goals for global governance reform, technological innovation, and multilateral collaboration.
The February statement highlighted both nations’ support for reformed multilateralism to sustain an equitable and peaceful international order.
India and France also committed to close coordination in global forums, including the United Nations Security Council, where both sides have called for structural reforms.
President Macron and Prime Minister Modi agreed to intensify conversations on regulating the use of the UNSC veto in mass atrocity situations and enhance joint initiatives on international security, sustainable development, and emerging technology.
Looking ahead, the two leaders will formally inaugurate the India–France Year of Innovation in New Delhi in March 2026. The programme aims to expand cooperation in scientific research, technological development, and innovation ecosystems.
Defence cooperation remains a core pillar of the India–France strategic relationship. In line with the Defence Industrial Roadmap agreed in 2024, both countries have continued joint operations involving air and maritime assets.
The roadmap includes provisions for co-development, joint production, and interoperability between their defence industries.
The continued alignment between New Delhi and Paris comes amid broader global realignments, as major powers revisit alliances and supply chains in light of geopolitical pressures.
With the G7 and BRICS presidencies approaching, both India and France are expected to play leading roles in shaping the global agenda on peace, innovation, and economic sovereignty.