French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated his support for free speech, emphasizing the need for mutual respect in international relations, including Indo-French defense partnerships. Macron clarified that true free speech does not entail unrestricted chaos but rather a relationship of listening and equality. He criticized algorithm-driven platforms for lacking transparency and promoting biased and politically motivated content, which he believes is not true free speech but rather a jungle of hatred and racism.
Macron’s comments were made in response to questions about digital regulation, social media accountability, and the Rafale deal during his participation in the AI Impact Summit 2026. He highlighted the importance of balanced global partnerships, emphasizing mutual benefit and trust in dialogues, such as those seen in defense agreements like Rafale and Tata-Airbus collaborations. Macron also outlined plans for enhanced maintenance cooperation and mutual agreements to strengthen ties between nations.
The French President underscored the strategic advantages of such partnerships, noting the growth of indigenous components and job creation resulting from these collaborations. Macron affirmed France’s commitment to local production and expressed readiness to increase the use of Indian components in critical devices, including the Rafale aircraft. He disclosed India’s interest in acquiring an additional 114 Rafale jets, with plans for co-production under the Make in India initiative.
Macron expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in submarines, engines, and helicopters, highlighting the progress in partnerships between Tata and Airbus. He praised the bilateral relationship between India and France, describing it as reaching its peak and evolving into a special global strategic partnership. Macron announced plans to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi in France for a state visit in June and reciprocate the visit next year, focusing on enhanced collaboration in defense, innovation, culture, creative industries, and research.
