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PM Modi’s keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore

Published By : Admin | June 1, 2018 | 19:00 IST
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The Indian Ocean has shaped much of India’s history. It now holds the key to our future: Prime Minister Modi
Southeast Asia is our neighbour by land and sea. With each Southeast Asian country, we have growing political, economic and defence ties, says PM Modi
Our ties with Japan – from economic to strategic – have been completely transformed. It is a partnership of great substance and purpose that is a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy: PM
India’s global strategic partnership with the US continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship; Indo-Pacific Region an important pillar of this partnership: PM
India and China are the world’s two most populous countries and among the fastest growing major economies. Our cooperation is expanding, trade is growing: PM
Our principal mission is transforming India to a New India by 2022, when Independent India will be 75 years young: Prime Minister Modi
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Solutions cannot be found behind walls of protection, but in embracing change: Prime Minister
Asia of rivalry will hold us all back. Asia of cooperation will shape this century: PM Narendra Modi
Competition is normal. But, contests must not turn into conflicts; differences must not be allowed to become disputes: PM Modi

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong,
Thank you for your friendship, your leadership of India-Singapore partnership and a better future for the region.
Defence Ministers,
Mr. John Chipman,
Dignitaries and Excellencies,
Namaskar and a very good evening to all of you!

I am pleased to return to a region, known to India since ancient times as Swarnabhoomi, (the land of gold).

I am also happy to be here in a special year. In a land-mark year of India’s relationship with ASEAN.

In January, we had the unique honour of hosting ten ASEAN leaders on our Republic Day. The ASEAN-India Summit was a testimony of our commitment to ASEAN, and to our Act East policy.

For thousands of years, Indians have turned to the East. Not just to see the Sun rise, but also to pray for its light to spread over the entire world. The human-kind now looks to the Rising East, with the hope to see the promise that this 21st century beholds for the whole world, because the destiny of the world will be deeply influenced by the course of developments in the Indo-Pacific region.

Because, this new age of promise is also caught in shifting plates of global politics and the fault lines of history. I am here to say that the future we seek does not have to be as elusive as Shangri La; that we can shape this region in our collective hopes and aspirations. No where is it more apt to pursue this than in Singapore.This great nation shows us that when the oceans are open, the seas are secure, countries are connected, the rule of law prevails and the region is stable, nations, small and large, prosper as sovereign countries. Free and fearless in their choices.

Singapore also shows that when nations stand on the side of principles, not behind one power or the other, they earn the respect of the world and a voice in international affairs. And, when they embrace diversity at home, they seek an inclusive world outside.

For India, though, Singapore means more. It’s the spirit that unites a lion nation and a lion city.Singapore is our springboard to ASEAN. It has been, for centuries, a gateway for India to the East.For over two thousand years, the winds of monsoons, the currents of seas and the force of human aspirations have built timeless links between India and this region. It was cast in peace and friendship, religion and culture, art and commerce, language and literature. These human links have lasted, even as the tides of politics and trade saw their ebb and flow.

Over the past three decades, we have re-claimed that heritage to restore our role and relationships in the region.For India, no region now receives as much attention as this. And, for good reasons.

Oceans had an important place in Indian thinking since pre-Vedic times. Thousands of years ago, the Indus Valley Civilisation as well as Indian peninsula had maritime trade. Oceans and Varuna – the Lord of all Waters – find a prominent place in the world’s oldest books- the Vedas. In ancient Puranas, written thousands of years ago, the geographical definition of India is with reference to the seas: उत्तरों यत समुद्रस्य meaning, the land which lies to the north of the seas.

Lothal, in my home state Gujarat, was among the world's oldest ports. Even today there are remains of a dock. No wonder Gujaratis are enterprising and travel widely even today! The Indian Ocean has shaped much of India’s history. It now holds the key to our future. The ocean carries 90% of India’s trade and our energy sources. It is also the life line of global commerce. The Indian Ocean connects regions of diverse cultures and different levels of peace and prosperity. It also now bears ships of major powers.Both raise concerns of stability and contest.

To the East, the Malacca Strait and South China Sea connect India to the Pacific and to most of our major partners - ASEAN, Japan, Republic of Korea, China and the Americas.Our trade in the region is growing rapidly. And, a significant part of our overseas investments flow in this direction. ASEAN alone accounts for over 20%.

Our interests in the region are vast, and our engagement is deep. In the Indian Ocean region, our relationships are becoming stronger. We are also helping build economic capabilities and improve maritime security for our friends and partners.We promote collective security through forums like Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.

We are advancing a comprehensive agenda of regional co-operation through Indian Ocean Rim Association. And, we also work with partners beyond the Indian Ocean Region to ensure that the global transit routes remain peaceful and free for all.

Three years ago, in Mauritius, I described our vision in one word – Sagar, which means ocean in Hindi. And, Sagar stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region and, that is the creed we follow to our East now even more vigorously through our Act East Policy by seeking to join India, especially her East and North-East, with our land and maritime partners to the east.

South-east Asia is our neighbour by land and sea.With each Southeast Asian country, we have growing political, economic and defence ties. With ASEAN, from dialogue partners, we have become strategic partners over the course of 25 years. We pursue our relations through annual summits and 30 dialogue mechanisms. But even more through a shared vision for the region, and the comfort and familiarity of our old links.

We are active participants in ASEAN-led institutions like East Asia Summit, A.D.M.M. Plus and A.R.F. We are part of BIMSTEC and Mekong-Ganga Economic Corridor - a bridge between South and Southeast Asia.

Our ties with Japan – from economic to strategic – have been completely transformed. It is a partnership of great substance and purpose that is a corner-stone of India’s Act East Policy. There is a strong momentum in our cooperation with Republic of Korea. And, there is a fresh energy in our partnerships with Australia, as also New Zealand.

With several of our partners, we meet in formats of three or more.More than three years ago, I landed at dawn in Fiji to start a successful new phase of engagement with Pacific Island Nations. The meetings of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation, or FIPIC, have bridged the distance of geography through shared interests and action.

Beyond East and Southeast Asia, our partnerships are strong and growing.It is a measure of our strategic autonomy that India’s Strategic Partnership, with Russia, has matured to be special and privileged.

Ten days ago in an informal summit at Sochi, President Putin and I shared our views on the need for a strong multi-polar world order for dealing with the challenges of our times. At the same time, India’s global strategic partnership with the United States has overcome the hesitations of history and continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship.It has assumed new significance in the changing world. And, an important pillar of this partnership is our shared vision of an open, stable, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific Region. No other relationship of India has as many layers as our relations with China. We are the world’s two most populous countries and among the fastest growing major economies. Our cooperation is expanding. Trade is growing. And, we have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border.

In April, a two-day informal Summit with President Xi helped us cement our understanding that strong and stable relations between our two nations are an important factor for global peace and progress. I firmly believe that, Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together in trust and confidence, sensitive to each other's interests.

India has a growing partnership with Africa, propelled through mechanisms such as India-Africa Forum Summits. At its core are cooperation based on Africa’s requirements, and a history of warmth and mutual respect.

Friends,
Coming back to our region, India’s growing engagement is accompanied by deeper economic and defence cooperation. We have more trade agreements in this part of the world than in any other. We have Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with Singapore, Japan and South Korea.

We have Free Trade Agreements with ASEAN and Thailand. And, we are now actively participating in concluding the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. I have just paid my first visit to Indonesia, India’s neighbour 90 nautical miles close, and not 90 nautical miles apart.

My friend President Widodo and I upgraded India-Indonesia relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Among other shared interests, we have a common vision for maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. On way from Indonesia, I stopped over briefly in Malaysia to meet one of ASEAN's most senior leaders, Prime Minister Mahathir.

Friends,
India Armed Forces, especially our Navy, are building partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region for peace and security, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. They train, exercise and conduct goodwill missions across the region. For example, with Singapore, we have the longest un-interrupted naval exercise, which is in its twenty fifth year now.

We will start a new tri-lateral exercise with Singapore soon and we hope to extend it to other ASEAN countries. We work with partners like Vietnam to build mutual capabilities. India conducts Malabar Exercise with the United States and Japan. A number of regional partners join in India’s Exercise मिलन in the Indian Ocean, and participate in RIMPAC in the Pacific.

We are active in the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia – in this very city. Distinguished members of the audience, Back home, our principal mission is transforming India to a New India by 2022, when Independent India will be 75 years young.

We will sustain growth of 7.5 to 8% per year. As our economy grows, our global and regional integration will increase. A nation of over 800 million youth knows that their future will be secured not just by the scale of India's economy, but also by the depth of global engagement. More than anywhere else, our ties will deepen and our presence will grow in the region. But, the future we seek to build needs a stable bedrock of peace. And, this is far from certain.

There are shifts in global power, change in the character of global economy and daily disruption in technology. The foundations of the global order appear shaken. And, the future looks less certain. For all our progress, we live on the edge of uncertainty, of unsettled questions and unresolved disputes; contests and claims; and clashing visions and competing models.

We see growing mutual insecurity and rising military expenditure; internal dislocations turning into external tensions; and new fault lines in trade and competition in the global commons. Above all, we see assertion (असरशन) of power over re-course (रि-कोर्स) to international norms. In the midst of all this, there are challenges that touch us all, including the un-ending threat of terrorism and extremism. This is a world of inter-dependent fortunes and failures. And, no nation can shape and secure it on its own.

It is a world that summons us to rise above divisions and competition to work together. Is that possible?

Yes. It is possible. I see ASEAN as an example and inspiration. ASEAN represents the greatest level of diversity of culture, religion, language, governance and prosperity of any grouping in the world.

It was born when Southeast Asia was a frontline of global competition, a theatre of a brutal war and a region of uncertain nations. Yet, today, ASEAN has united ten countries behind a common purpose. ASEAN unity is essential for a stable future for this region.

And, each of us must support it, not weaken it. I have attended four East Asia Summits. I am convinced that ASEAN can integrate the broader region. In many ways, ASEAN is already leading the process. In doing so, it has laid the foundation of the Indo-Pacific Region. The East Asia Summit and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership – two important initiatives of ASEAN – embrace this geography.

Friends,
The Indo-Pacific is a natural region. It is also home to a vast array of global opportunities and challenges. I am increasingly convinced with each passing day that the destinies of those of us who live in the region are linked. Today, we are being called to rise above divisions and competition to work together.

The ten countries of South East Asia connect the two great oceans in both the geographical and civilizational sense. Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality and unity, therefore, lie at the heart of the new Indo-Pacific. India does not see the Indo-Pacific Region as a strategy or as a club of limited members.

Nor as a grouping that seeks to dominate. And by no means do we consider it as directed against any country. A geographical definition, as such, cannot be. India's vision for the Indo-Pacific Region is, therefore, a positive one. And, it has many elements.

One,
it stands for a free, open, inclusive region, which embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity. It includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it.

Two,
Southeast Asia is at its centre. And, ASEAN has been and will be central to its future. That is the vision that will always guide India, as we seek to cooperate for an architecture for peace and security in this region.

Three, 

we believe that our common prosperity and security require us to evolve, through dialogue, a common rules-based order for the region. And, it must equally apply to all individually as well as to the global commons. Such an order must believe in sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as equality of all nations, irrespective of size and strength. These rules and norms should be based on the consent of all, not on the power of the few. This must be based on faith in dialogue, and not dependence on force. It also means that when nations make international commitments, they must uphold them. This is the foundation of India's faith in multilateralism and regionalism; and, of our principled commitment to rule of law.

Four,
we should all have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law. When we all agree to live by that code, our sea lanes will be pathways to prosperity and corridors of peace. We will also be able to come together to prevent maritime crimes, preserve marine ecology, protect against disasters and prosper from blue economy.

Five,
this region, and all of us, have benefitted from globalisation. Indian food is among the best examples of these benefits! But, there is growing protectionism – in goods and in services. Solutions cannot be found behind walls of protection, but in embracing change. What we seek is a level playing field for all. India stands for open and stable international trade regime. We will also support rule-based, open, balanced and stable trade environment in the Indo-Pacific Region, which lifts up all nations on the tide of trade and investment. That is what we expect from Regional Comprehnsive Economic Partnership. RCEP must be comprehensive, as the name suggests, and the principles declared. It must have a balance among trade, investment and services.

Six,
connectivity is vital. It does more than enhance trade and prosperity. It unites a region. India has been at the crossroads for centuries. We understand the benefits of connectivity. There are many connectivity initiatives in the region. If these have to succeed, we must not only build infrastructure, we must also build bridges of trust. And for that, these initiatives must be based on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, consultation, good governance, transparency, viability and sustainability. They must empower nations, not place them under impossible debt burden. They must promote trade, not strategic competition. On these principles, we are prepared to work with everyone. India is doing its part, by itself and in partnership with others like Japan – in South Asia and Southeast Asia, in the Indian Ocean, Africa, West Asia and beyond. And, we are important stake-holders in New Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Finally,
all of this is possible, if we do not return to the age of great power rivalries I have said this before: Asia of rivalry will hold us all back. Asia of cooperation will shape this century. So, each nation must ask itself: Are its choices building a more united world, or forcing new divisions? It is a responsibility that both existing and rising powers have. Competition is normal. But, contests must not turn into conflict; differences must not be allowed to become disputes. Distinguished members of the audience, It is normal to have partnerships on the basis of shared values and interests. India, too, has many in the region and beyond.

We will work with them, individually or in formats of three or more, for a stable and peaceful region. But, our friendships are not alliances of containment. We choose the side of principles and values, of peace and progress, not one side of a divide or the other. Our relationships across the world speak for our position.

And, when we can work together, we will be able to meet the real challenges of our times. We will be able to protect our planet. We will be able to ensure non-proliferation We will be able to secure our people from terrorism and cyber threats.

In conclusion, let me say this again: India’s own engagement in the Indo-Pacific Region – from the shores of Africa to that of the Americas - will be inclusive. We are in-heritors of Vedanta philosophy that believes in essential oneness of all, and celebrates unity in diversity एकम सत्यम, विप्राः बहुदावदंति – Truth is one, the learned speak of it in many ways. That is the foundation of our civilizational ethos – of pluralism, co-existence, open-ness and dialogue. The ideals of democracy that define us as a nation also shape the way we engage the world.

So, it translates into five S in Hindi: सम्मान (respect); सम्वाद (dialogue); सह्योग (cooperation), शांति (peace), and समृद्धि (prosperity). It’s easy to learn these words! So, we will engage with the world in peace, with respect, through dialogue and absolute commitment to international law.

We will promote a democratic and rules-based international order, in which all nations, small and large, thrive as equal and sovereign We will work with others to keep our seas, space and airways free and open; our nations secure from terrorism; and our cyber space free from disruption and conflict. We will keep our economy open and our engagement transparent. We will share our resources, markets and prosperity with our friends and partners. We will seek a sustainable future for our planet, as through the new International Solar Alliance together with France and other partners.

This is how we wish ourselves and our partners to proceed in this vast region and beyond. The ancient wisdom of the region is our common heritage. Lord Buddha’s message of peace and compassion has connected us all. Together, we have contributed much to human civilisation. And, we have been through the devastation of war and the hope of peace. We have seen the limits of power. And, we have seen the fruits of cooperation.

This world is at a crossroad There are temptations of the worst lessons of history. But, there is also a path of wisdom. It summons us to a higher purpose: to rise above a narrow view of our interests and recognise that each of us can serve our interests better when we work together as equals in the larger good of all nations. I am here to urge all to take that path.

Thank you.


Thank you very much.

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India – France Joint Statement
February 18, 2026

At the invitation of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, President of the French Republic H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron paid an official visit to India from 17 to 19 February 2026 and participated in the Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026. During the visit, the two leaders held bilateral talks and jointly inaugurated the 2026 India-France Year of Innovation in Mumbai on 17 February. This is President Macron’s 4th visit to India and it follows Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France in February 2025.

On this occasion, both leaders agreed to elevate relations to a "Special Global Strategic Partnership” to guide bilateral cooperation in the coming decades. The upgrading of relations reflects the growing ambitions and vision shared by the two leaders on India-France relationship, to act as a force for global good that can help build not only prosperity and resilience in their economies and advance their countries’ security, but also work collectively towards addressing challenges in an increasingly uncertain global environment and, thus, help build a stable rules-based international order. Both countries celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership in 2023, on the occasion of which they adopted the Horizon 2047 Roadmap to set the course for the bilateral relationship up to 2047, the centenary year of India's independence, the centenary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and 50 years of Strategic Partnership. The leaders established an annual Foreign Ministers Comprehensive Dialogue for regularly reviewing the progress of bilateral cooperation and implementation of the elevated partnership, and the Horizon 2047, in particular, in the areas of economic security, global issues and people to people exchanges.

India and France have a long history of collaboration in defence and security which has only deepened with a focus on co-design, co-development and co-production of defence platforms and France has emerged as India's one of the foremost defence partners in the world. Both countries have deepened collaboration in civil nuclear energy, through fruitful discussions on potential collaborations in both large capacity nuclear power plants and emerging areas such as Small Modular Reactors and Advanced Modular Reactors. Both countries have long-standing cooperation in the domain of space, including in areas such as joint satellite development, launchers and human flight programs. Both countries have expanded and diversified cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, innovation, research, technology, digital and cyber space, health, culture, economy, educational links and people to people exchanges. Trade and investment links between the two countries have deepened and both countries are cooperating on building trusted, reliable and resilient supply chains, as well as safeguarding their economic security. Through the establishment of a Special Global Strategic Partnership, India and France are committed to deeper cooperation and coordination at bilateral, regional and global levels, guided by the India-France Horizon 2047 Roadmap.

Both Leaders, acknowledging the importance of advancing scientific knowledge, research and innovation, and the long and enduring engagement between India and France in these areas, jointly inaugurated the 2026 India-France Year of Innovation. This year will feature a series of high-impact collaborations in India and France spanning diverse sectors such as Innovation, Science and Technology, Cyberspace and Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare, Sustainable Development, Cultural and Creative Economy, and Research and Education. These engagements aim to enrich existing collaborations and foster new collaborations between startups, academic institutions, research bodies and industry, showcasing the shared commitment of India and France to co-develop solutions for a smarter, more sustainable future.

President Macron congratulated Prime Minister Modi on India’s successful organization of AI Impact Summit. The summit, while addressing the risks, also highlighted the opportunities offered by AI and built on the progress made in the AI Action Summit, hosted by France and co-chaired by President Macron and Prime Minister Modi in Paris in February 2025. Recalling the India-France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence, both leaders expressed their commitment towards a secure and trustworthy AI serving people, public interest, planet and the progress of our peoples. Both sides also affirmed democratizing AI resources through openness and bridging the global AI divide as important principles. France also contributed significantly as a co-chair of the Working Group on Resilience, Innovation and Efficiency.

President Macron extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the G7 Summit to be hosted by France in 2026 and invited India to participate actively in the discussions and preparatory work ahead of the Summit, mainly on the key issues of tackling global macroeconomic imbalances and defining a new paradigm for international partnerships and solidarity. Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed the invitation, noting India’s longstanding partnership with the G7 and its commitment to contributing constructively to global discussions on addressing global economic imbalances, development financing, international partnership, economic security, resilient supply chains, climate action and international security. Both leaders expressed confidence that India’s participation would further strengthen collective efforts to address global challenges and promote a more balanced, inclusive, and resilient international order. Both leaders stressed the importance of collective efforts in order to address together global challenges, especially macroeconomic issues.

President Macron recalled the invitation extended jointly with President Ruto to Prime Minister Modi to participate in the "Africa Forward: Partnerships between Africa and France for Innovation and Growth” Summit, to be held on May 11 and 12, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. Considering India’s longstanding and friendly engagement with both France and African countries, Prime Minister Modi thanked for the invitation and reaffirmed support in areas of mutual interest, in particular energy transition, artificial intelligence, health, agriculture and blue economy.

The two Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. The elevation of the relationship will strengthen cooperation between the two countries in sectors of the future, so as to reinforce their sovereignty and decision-making autonomy, and to respond together to the major challenges confronting our world, including through cooperation between India and the European Union.

They reiterated their call for reformed and effective multilateralism to sustain an equitable and peaceful international order, address pressing global challenges and prepare the world for emerging developments, including in the technological and economic domains. The two leaders stressed, in particular, the urgent need for the reform of the United Nations Security Council. They agreed to coordinate closely in multilateral fora, including on UNSC matters, and pledged to continue their efforts to conclude intergovernmental negotiations on the reform of the United Nations Security Council. France reiterated its firm support for India’s permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council. They agreed to strengthen conversations on regulation of use of the veto in cases of mass atrocities. They held extensive discussions on long-term global challenges and current international developments and agreed to intensify their engagement.

Both leaders also underlined the key importance of strengthening EU-India relations and welcomed the historic summit between India and the EU, during which the negotiations of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement were concluded. The FTA will open opportunities for further economic collaboration between India, France and Europe, strengthening the competitiveness of our businesses, ushering in a new era of sustainable prosperity and resilient value chains. Both leaders welcomed the conclusion of the Security and Defense Partnership, which will contribute to the strategic autonomy of the EU and India, and will provide a framework for in-depth exchanges and cooperation on common security challenges such as maritime security, cybersecurity, hybrid threats, space and counterterrorism, and for promoting mutually beneficial defence industrial collaboration.

The two leaders reiterated their concern over the war in Ukraine, which continues to cause immense human suffering and negative global consequences. They stressed the importance of cessation of hostilities and expressed support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter and international law, including independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The two sides discussed the recent developments of concern in Iran and the region. They underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving issues in a peaceful manner.

Both Leaders expressed their support to the implementation of the Peace Plan for Gaza in accordance with the Resolution 2803 adopted by the United Nations Security Council and principles enshrined in the New York Declaration. They encouraged all parties to implement the resolution in its entirety. Both sides restated their readiness to support efforts towards just and durable peace and stressed the need for rapid, safe and unimpeded aid delivery throughout the Gaza strip. Both Leaders reiterated the commitment of India and France for a just and lasting solution, based on the implementation of the two-state solution, through dialogue and diplomacy.

I. Partnership for Security and Sovereignty

Recalling the deep and long-standing defence cooperation between France and India, Prime Minister Modi and President Macron agreed to intensify joint research, co-design, co-development and co-production of advanced defence platforms, including in the field of air, naval and land systems, and emerging dual-use technologies, in line with the ambitious Defence Industrial Roadmap agreed in 2024. They looked forward to the convening of the Annual Defence Dialogue between the Ministers of Defence of both countries during this visit. They also welcomed the signing of a Technical Arrangement for cooperation in defence technologies between DGA and DRDO in November 2025 that will provide a platform for research and development partnerships between the two agencies. Building on the existing trust in high technology collaboration between India and France, both leaders agreed to constitute a Joint Advanced Technology Development Group to explore opportunities to co-develop emerging and critical technologies in identified niche areas to retain a competitive military edge, and mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities.

They welcomed ongoing discussions on furthering defence cooperation in helicopter and jet engines and the excellent cooperation between the relevant entities on both sides. In particular, both leaders commended the contract to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets. They expressed their wish to further strengthen their partnership in defence aeronautics, especially in the field of manufacturing of fighter aircraft and combat aircraft engines under the Make in India initiative, and welcomed recent positive developments in this regard. They noted the excellent cooperation between the relevant entities in the Safran group and their Indian counterparts. They appreciated the ongoing partnership between Safran and HAL for the development of the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH). Both sides welcomed the inauguration of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility for LEAP engine, the establishment of MRO facility for M-88 engines mounted on Rafale aircrafts and the Joint Venture with Bharat Electronics Limited to produce the HAMMER Missiles in India. Both leaders also jointly inaugurated the H125 Final Assembly Line, a first of its kind private sector helicopter manufacturing facility in India, a historic make in India milestone, that will combine the strength of TATA Advanced Systems and Airbus to serve India’s growing market and export to third countries. Prime Minister Modi appreciated the growing interest on the French side in India’s Pinaka MBRL.

Both leaders highlighted the success of the made-in-India Scorpène program (P75 – Kalvari), whose 6th submarine was delivered on January 15, 2025 to the Indian Navy, and welcomed the continuation of the cooperation in Submarines.

Both leaders appreciated the regular conduct of bilateral military exercises in all domains, with three major bilateral exercises held in 2025 (Varuna, Shakti and Garuda), as well as both sides’ participation in multilateral exercises, including India's participation in French Space Military Exercises. They also welcomed conduct of regular port calls between the two countries. The two leaders also welcomed the deployment of officers in our respective armies in 2026, which will contribute to strengthening the mutual knowledge between our armed forces. The two leaders looked forward to increasing operational engagements between the armed forces of the two countries.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in the field of defense space, in line with the Letter of Intent signed in January, 2024. The Technical Arrangement between DRDO and DGA which includes the field of defense space in its scope provides a framework for innovative state-level and industrial cooperation of mutual interest.

Recognizing the key role of critical minerals in supporting a green and digital economy, emerging technologies and advanced manufacturing, the two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in exploration, extraction, processing and recycling technologies of critical minerals and rare earths in order to create diversified, sustainable, responsible and resilient supply chains. In this regard, both sides welcomed the Joint Declaration of Intent on cooperation in the field of critical minerals between France and India.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), recognizing its transformational potential in reshaping and promoting global trade, connectivity and prosperity. Appreciating the preliminary discussions around the project, they encouraged the first IMEC Ministerial Meeting to take concrete steps for advancing this initiative in 2026.

They appreciated the cooperation in trilateral formats with Australia and the United Arab Emirates and directed their concerned officials infuse new ambition to work together with officials from the Governments of Australia and United Arab Emirates to implement the mutually identified areas of work under these initiatives.

They reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific region and called for closer collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, in line with their ‘Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region’ of 2018 and ‘India-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap’ of 2023. They also looked forward to enhanced engagement under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and to strengthening cooperation in the Indian Ocean Rim Association under India’s Chairship. They welcomed the latest development of joint initiatives in the region, including recent new solar energy trainings in countries in the Indo-Pacific region through the International Solar Alliance (ISA) with both Indian and French fundings, as well as the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructures (CDRI) and the AFD Group to reinforce disaster resilience in third countries. They appreciated the progress on the Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation (IPTDC) aimed at supporting climate and SDG focused projects from third countries of the Indo-Pacific, with the two sides having jointly identified projects in the fields of Digital Startups, Health, and Digital Public Infrastructure to be implemented together.

In the space sector, they commended the strength of the partnership between CNES and ISRO and supported the development of deeper collaborations between their space industries. Taking note of the substantial contribution of the first two sessions of the India-France Strategic Space Dialogue to further this objective, they called for early convening of the third session in 2026. Building on the Letter of Intent on cooperation on defence space, inter alia, both leaders agreed to strengthen their synergies in terms of sovereign access to space and enhancing space situational awareness. India welcomed the organization by France of the International Space Summit in July 2026, for strengthening multilateralism in space, and confirmed participation.

The two leaders also stressed the importance of deepening cooperation between their major oceanographic institutions and developing synergies in the Ocean-Space nexus, notably through strengthened collaboration between CNES and INCOIS to improve ocean observation in relation to oceanographic fleets and support sustainable management, which reconciles prosperity and protection of the Ocean.

In the cyber sector, both leaders commended the strong bilateral partnership, based on the development of synergies between Indian and French industries. Both sides emphasized strengthening of cyber cooperation through regular bilateral cyber dialogue and engagements. They called for the next dialogue to take place in 2026. The two leaders reiterated the strategic significance of cyberspace and their wish to strengthen their coordination at the United Nations regarding the application of international law and the implementation of the framework for responsible State behaviour in cyberspace, as well as the need to address issues arising from the proliferation of malicious cyber tools and practices.

The two leaders unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations including cross border terrorism. President Macron strongly condemned the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and expressed support to India’s right to defend itself against terrorism. He also condemned the November 2025 terror incident near Red Fort, New Delhi. The leaders reiterated their commitment to cooperate in the fight against terrorists and terrorist groups and their affiliates including those listed by the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and combat the financing of terrorism, consistent with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Both countries reiterated their commitment to work together in UN, FATF and other multilateral platforms. India expressed support to France’s hosting of the next No Money For Terror (NMFT) Conference that will be held in Paris in May 2026.

Both Leaders appreciated the signing of a Letter of Intent for cooperation on counter terrorism between the National Security Guard (NSG) of India and the Groupe d'Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale (GIGN) in November 2025. They appreciated mutual support between the two countries in organization of MILIPOL exhibitions in each other’s countries in the year 2025, and looked forward to the successful organization of MILIPOL 2027 in New Delhi and Paris, respectively. The two leaders welcomed the outcomes of the counter-terrorism dialogue held in September 2025, reflecting the growing India-France counter-terrorism and intelligence cooperation.

II. Partnership for the Planet

Both leaders recognized the worsening impacts of climate change — marked by the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events — and reaffirmed the importance of the Paris Agreement and promoting sustainable lifestyles. They agreed to cooperate closely for its effective implementation and to join forces to raise global ambition, including by holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. France and India reaffirmed their determination to defend the role of science as the basis of climate action, and support the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). They welcomed the bilateral cooperation carried out in multilateral fora, within the framework of the Franco-Indian presidencies of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) since 2024 and the International Solar Alliance (ISA) since 2018. They reiterated their commitment to these two organizations based in New Delhi, reflected in the hosting in France, as co-president, of the international conference of the CDRI in 2025 and the concrete support of India and France to both organizations. They also welcomed the ongoing discussions for establishment of a European office of the International Solar Alliance in Paris. They will engage for decarbonization and resilience of the buildings sector, notably through the Declaration de Chaillot and its Intergovernmental Council for Buildings and Climate and support efforts to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors, including through the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT) initiative.

Both leaders commended the strong bilateral cooperation between India and France on climate and environment issues. They welcomed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the Ministry of Economies, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty on renewable energy cooperation. They expressed appreciation at the bilateral cooperation in projects in urban mobility, energy transition, green finance, biodiversity preservation and disaster management in India with involvement of the AFD Group. They noted the progress in discussions on the Statement of Intent between Niti Aayog and the AFD Group to develop jointly a new macroeconomic modelling of the impacts of the energy transition in India.

Both leaders welcomed the success of the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3) held in Nice in June 2025. France and India welcomed the entry into force of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Treaty), which is one of the pillars of an inclusive and comprehensive international ocean governance. Aware of the major breakthrough that the agreement offers for multilateralism, science and future generations, the Leaders agreed on the importance of the ratification by the largest number of States to ensure effective implementation starting from the first Conference of the Parties. Convinced of the crucial importance of protecting the Ocean biodiversity, France and India called for the expansion of marine protected areas worldwide. India and France also reaffirmed their commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. France and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen their cooperation in the exploration and observation of the Ocean, to support the generation and sharing of reliable scientific data for the implementation of the Treaty on the High Seas, the strengthening of governance of international marine spaces and the development of new marine protected areas.

Recognizing the complementarity between all low carbon energies among which nuclear energy would be important for strengthening energy security and transitioning towards a low-carbon economy, President Macron lauded India’s ambitious target to achieve 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047 and India’s recent reforms of its nuclear sector, including the allowing of private investment in this sector. The leaders agreed to deepen India-France cooperation in nuclear energy across the value chain from research, skills development to industrial applications, and explore possibilities to collaborate, for making it a major pillar in India's energy mix. They also noted the regular meetings of the Special Task Force on civil nuclear energy, including the evolving discussions on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project. In the same context, they expressed satisfaction over the participation of Indian companies and industry delegates in the 6th World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) held in Paris in 2025 and the forthcoming participation of India in the second World Nuclear Energy Summit in France in cooperation with the IAEA.

In this regard, the leaders welcomed the longstanding relationship between Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Commissariat a l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA) and called for a renewed and strengthened cooperation in the field of Nuclear Science and Technology for peaceful purposes. Furthermore, both Leaders agreed to explore possibility of strengthening cooperation between their respective regulatory bodies.

Recalling the Declaration of Intent (DoI) for establishing cooperation on Small and Advanced Modular Reactors (SMR/AMR) between India and France signed in 2025 and their commitment to apply the highest standards of safety, security and non-proliferation, the two leaders noted efforts from both sides to strengthen cooperation between French start-up companies and relevant Indian companies in this sector. Separately, within the framework of this DoI, the two sides agreed to explore the possibility of establishing cooperation in research and development on SMR/AMR between the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

The Leaders welcomed the sustained growth in bilateral trade and the strong two-way investments between the countries. They reaffirmed their commitment to fully realizing untapped economic potential, including through MSMEs, startups, digitalization, AI and innovation-driven enterprises. In this context, both leaders expressed happiness at the holding of the India-France CEO Forum during this visit. They also shared a commitment of holding the Economic and Financial Dialogue this year. The leaders expressed happiness at the deepening of business ties between companies of both countries, especially in the areas of aerospace, energy and logistics, agri-food, telecoms and tech sectors. The CEO Forum being held tomorrow will take further the agenda of business partnerships between the two countries.

The Leaders also welcomed the signature of the amendment to the bilateral tax treaty, which will secure economic activity for French and Indian businesses and pave the way for greater investments and collaborations between the two countries.

Both leaders expressed their satisfaction over continuous progress made by UPI in France, the first European country to offer UPI. Several flagship stores already accept UPI, making Paris a more attractive destination for Indian tourists. Both leaders agreed to work towards greater acceptance of secure and efficient digital payment methods in order to improve payments made by tourists.

Both leaders welcomed cooperation in the railway sector and expressed their intent to collaborate across a wide range of domains, including operations and maintenance, passenger amenities, sustainability and environmental impact management, training and upskilling of railway personnel, construction technologies such as high-speed rail, infrastructures, as well as manufacturing technologies, including hydrogen-powered trains. In this regard, they looked forward to the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent on cooperation on railway and high-speed railway development in India.

III. Partnership for the People

Recalling the rich history of India-France cooperation in science and technology, the leaders emphasized the need to further deepen the cooperation in this field, especially in the context of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026. They welcomed the progress in existing bilateral cooperation on critical and emerging technologies, including on space, civil nuclear energy, cyber and AI, and encouraged to go further in technology cooperation. They welcomed the launch of the India-France Innovation Network to bring together the innovation ecosystems of France and India through a digital network, by connecting key stakeholders including innovators, start-ups, businesses and incubators of both countries.

Following the success of the ten Indian startups at Station F last year, the leaders welcomed ongoing discussions on further startup incubation and greater interactions of Indian and French startup ecosystems and the LoI signed between T-Hub and Nord France Invest for collaboration between the two startup ecosystems. In this context, the French side also expressed its commitment to bring VivaTech, Europe’s largest tech fair, to India, in partnership with the Bangalore Tech Summit. Taking forward the existing strong scientific partnership on multiple projects, the two leaders also welcomed the announcement on the opening of a binational center on digital sciences and technology in India between lnstitut National de Recherche en Informatique et en Automatique (INRIA) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) towards which both sides have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent, and the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding for Scientific Collaboration between The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and DST as well as Letter of Intent between DST and CNRS to establish a Joint Center for Advanced Materials. They called for early finalization of the joint call for projects by ANR and DST in the field of AI and applied mathematics.

In line with their objective of deepening bilateral cooperation in civil aviation, both parties welcomed the recent signing of a declaration of intent in the field of civil aviation. They welcomed the launch of a new airline route between Saint-Denis de la Réunion and Chennai, which will help develop economic and cultural exchanges between La Réunion and India. Both Leaders welcomed signing of the Letter of Intent for establishment of a National Centre of Excellence in Aeronautics and allied sectors at the National Skill Training Institute (NSTI), Kanpur, and underscored the importance of further strengthening bilateral cooperation under the existing Memorandum of Understanding in the fields of skill development, vocational education, and training, with a focus on enhancing skilling outcomes.

India and France welcomed the unprecedented dynamism in the field of Health cooperation. Following the signing of the Declaration of Intent for Cooperation in the Field of Health and Medicine during the last presidential visit in New Delhi in January 2024, India and France have placed AI and digital health at the core of this strategic cooperation. In furtherance of this, both leaders look forward to the launch of a unique research Centre dedicated to AI in healthcare during the visit, involving a collaboration between Sorbonne University, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and the Paris Brain Institute. Promising Indo-French cooperation in the field of digital health will strengthen this dynamic, including partnerships between PariSanté Campus and the C-CAMP (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms), and between Health Data Hub and ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). The two leaders also hailed the progress and ambition of the French-Indian Campus on Life Sciences for Health, a flagship project bringing together over 22 prestigious higher education and research institutions in both countries to address major global health challenges. They both welcomed the signing of a Letter of Intent on India-France Collaboration to promote Research and Development on Infectious Diseases and Global Health Research.

Building on the long-standing cultural collaboration between the two nations, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cultural ties, particularly in the context of the India–France Year of Innovation 2026, by organizing a series of cultural events in both countries, aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich cultural heritage shared by India and France. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of the reciprocal ‘Villa Swagatam’ residency network to foster cultural exchanges.

Recalling the signing of the Agreement between the National Museum in Delhi and France Muséums Développement in December 2024, both Leaders commended the progress made in establishing the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum as a global cultural landmark. Both leaders also welcomed progress in discussions for cooperation on the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal. They welcomed the announcement of a cultural year dedicated to India at the French National Museum of Asian Arts (Guimet Museum) in 2028 and an exhibition dedicated to contemporary Indian photography at the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Franco-Indian strategic partnership in 2028. The exhibition "Ce qui se trame” / "Textile Matters”, devoted to the textile expertise of both countries, which was presented at the Mobilier National at the end of 2025, will soon be shown in India.

Both France and India, with their rich cultural and creative traditions, announce their wish to cooperate in promoting cultural and creative industries (CCIs) aimed at encouraging new collaborations and sharing of best practices.

Building on the success of the reciprocal invitation of India to the Paris Book Festival 2022 and of France to the New Delhi World Book Fair 2023, France and India intend to strengthen their cooperation in fields of books and literature by encouraging reciprocal invitations of professionals, two-way translation flows and collaborative ventures.

Building on the success of Namaste France in 2023, both leaders agreed to celebrate the next edition of Namaste France to mark the 30 years of strategic partnership in the year 2028 and to make it as a regular feature of bilateral cultural cooperation.

They hailed the work accomplished by the Alliance française network in India and the Indian cultural Centre in La Réunion. They welcomed the opening of the Indian Cultural Centre in Paris (Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre – SVCC) and further directed their officials to conclude a bilateral agreement in order to acknowledge the specific missions of the Indian Cultural Centre in Paris and the Alliance française network in India. In this context, both sides remain committed to the goal of expanding the teaching of the French language in secondary schools, universities and vocational education centers in India, including through the French for All, French for a Better Future program.

Both leaders reaffirmed the priority given to strengthen educational cooperation and student mobility. To this end, they appreciated the International Classes initiative, which facilitates access to French universities for students from the Indian secondary school system by offering them dedicated linguistic and methodological training. This will promote student mobility with the objective to meet the target of welcoming 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030 from the present 10,000. Both leaders welcomed the establishment of a hub in Mumbai that will bring together ESSEC Business School and CentraleSupélec engineering school. The two leaders welcomed the upcoming revision of the agreement on Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications.

Both Leaders commended the growth of Academic and Scientific cooperation and the success of the High Level Academic and Scientific Meetings hosted by AIIMS in New Delhi on the 18th and the 19th of February. These high-level meetings brought together more than 200 universities and research institutes and scientific organisations from both countries and highlighted the vibrant cooperation between the leading universities and academic institutions on both sides including double and joint degree arrangements. In the field of social sciences, both leaders expressed their appreciation and support to the work accomplished by CEFIPRA in promoting and funding bilateral scientific research.

With a view to expanding mutually beneficial skills and talent mobility between the countries, both leaders emphasised the importance of the India-France Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) and Young Professional Scheme (YPS). Both leaders welcomed the signing of Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the fields of skill development, vocational education and training that would strengthen opportunities for mobility of youth and professionals and strengthen people-to-people bonds between India and France. In this spirit, the leaders welcomed the announcement of the upcoming visa free transit of Indian nationals through French airports, which will be reviewed after a six month pilot period.

Both leaders welcomed the inaugural Mediterranean Edition of Raisina Dialogue, held in Marseille, to foster high-level dialogue involving representatives of governments, industry leaders, experts on trade and connectivity issues and other relevant stakeholders with an aim to enhance trade and connectivity between the Mediterranean and the Indo-Pacific regions and noted that it will further enhance bilateral exchanges between the academics and think-tanks of both sides as well as with those of the countries in the Mediterranean region. In this regard, both leaders are looking forward to the upcoming edition of this Forum.

The establishment of the India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership opens a new chapter in the India-France relationship creating further opportunities for the peoples of the two countries and advancing international peace, stability and prosperity.