French President Emmanuel Macron expressed confidence in the growing relationship between France and India, highlighting the success of the Tata Airbus deal and the upcoming Rafale deal. He emphasized the importance of ‘Make in India’ in these collaborations, indicating potential future submarine deals.
During the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Macron mentioned plans to enhance cooperation in maintenance capacities and diversification approaches. He noted the positive trajectory of collaboration with India, focusing on strengthening strategic ties and boosting job opportunities through indigenous components.
Macron extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit France in June, where Modi will be a special guest at the G7 as BRICS President. The French President underscored the unique global strategic partnership between India and France, particularly in expanding defense cooperation, including the production of Rafale fighter jets in India.
Welcoming India’s approval for 114 Rafale fighter jets, Macron highlighted the significant ‘Made in India’ aspect of the deal. He also mentioned potential collaborations on submarines, engines, and helicopters, emphasizing the partnership between Tata and Airbus in this regard.
Recently, Tata Advanced Systems Limited inaugurated India’s first private-sector helicopter Final Assembly Line for the Airbus H125 in Karnataka, virtually attended by PM Modi and Macron. Macron emphasized the strong relationship between the two countries, highlighting joint initiatives in innovation, culture, research, and more.
