India, France sign over 20 deals in defence and AI, elevate ties to special strategic partnership

India and France signed more than 20 agreements across defence, technology, trade and health during talks between Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron. The discussions, held during Macron’s visit to India, focused on strengthening cooperation in critical technologies and global security.

Both sides described the relationship as a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, emphasising stability in an uncertain international environment. The leaders also launched the India-France Year of Innovation to connect industries, startups, students and researchers and expand collaboration in clean energy, space and emerging technologies.

New joint institutions announced include an Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, a Digital Science and Technology centre and a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics. The leaders also inaugurated an Airbus-Tata Advanced Systems facility to manufacture H125 helicopters in India for global export.

The visit additionally reinforced defence ties, days after India cleared a proposal to procure Rafale fighter jets from France. Both countries highlighted cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and joint initiatives in renewable energy and infrastructure, calling the partnership one built on trust and long-term ambition.