Mumbai

Narendra Modi on Tuesday held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai, as part of the latter’s fourth official visit to India.

The two leaders met at Lok Bhavan, where they were seen sharing a warm hug before commencing discussions. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of the India–France strategic partnership and exploring ways to deepen cooperation across key sectors.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed President Macron on his arrival, following which the bilateral talks were held. Earlier, Modi reached Lok Bhavan and was received by the Governor of Maharashtra and Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat.

In a post on X, the Governor said that the Prime Minister arrived at Maharashtra Lok Bhavan for his meeting with the French President and was accorded a warm welcome.

The discussions are expected to further strengthen ties between India and France, with a focus on strategic cooperation, trade, defence collaboration and global issues of mutual interest.

Earlier in the day, President Macron, accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, paid a solemn tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The gesture reflected shared values of resilience and democracy, underscoring solidarity between New Delhi and Paris in the fight against terrorism.

Welcoming the French President, PM Modi reiterated his commitment to advancing bilateral relations. In a post on X, he said India looks forward to strengthening cooperation across sectors and contributing to global progress.

The high-level French delegation arrived in Mumbai for the visit, scheduled till February 19, and was received at the airport by Governor Acharya Devvrat and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

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Highlighting the strategic importance of the visit, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Prime Minister Modi and President Macron will jointly launch the “Year of Innovation 2026,” giving fresh momentum to the vibrant India–France strategic partnership.