From car diplomacy to global strategy: Modi, Macron upgrade India–France ties

The two leaders shared an one-on-one conversation as they drove from Lok Bhavan to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, located near the Gateway of India.

The informal journey underscored the warmth and growing personal chemistry between the leaders, complementing the strong strategic partnership between India and France.

Such moments of direct engagement, often described as car diplomacy, have become a hallmark of Modi’s interactions with global leaders, reflecting trust and ease beyond formal engagements.

Before the drive, PM Modi on Monday held wide-ranging talks with Macron in Mumbai, marking a significant boost to bilateral relations between India and France.

PM Modi held wide-ranging talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai. Photo: PIB.

The two leaders discussed cooperation across strategic, defence and security domains, as well as trade and investment, joint manufacturing, critical minerals supply chains, research and development, education, startups, health and skilling.

In a milestone decision, India and France agreed to upgrade their relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, reflecting the growing depth and breadth of engagement between the two countries.

As part of the visit, both sides announced 21 key outcomes spanning defence, technology and innovation, advanced materials, critical minerals, health and workforce development.

Modi and Macron also virtually inaugurated the H125 helicopter assembly plant, a move expected to strengthen India’s aeronautical manufacturing ecosystem, enhance skill development, generate employment and support the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Modi-Macron virtually inaugurated the H125 helicopter assembly plant. Photo: PIB.

Earlier, Macron was accorded a warm welcome by the Governor of Maharashtra and Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, and CM Devendra Fadnavis at the Mumbai airport.

Macron was received at Mumbai airport by the Governor of Maharashtra, Acharya Devvrat, and CM Devendra Fadnavis. Photo: PIB.

Welcoming his dear friend Macron, Modi wrote: "Welcome to India! India looks forward to your visit and to advancing our bilateral ties to new heights. I am confident that our discussions will further strengthen cooperation across sectors and contribute to global progress. See you in Mumbai and later in Delhi, my dear friend @EmmanuelMacron."