India and France Strengthen Strategic Partnership with Helicopter Assembly Line Inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described France as a “special partner” while inaugurating the assembly line of H-125 helicopters alongside French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai. Speaking at a joint press conference, Modi highlighted that India and France will produce the H-125 helicopter in India, capable of flying at the heights of Mount Everest. He said the two nations have agreed to elevate their relationship to a special global strategic partnership, calling it a “force for global stability amid uncertainty.” The PM also emphasised that India and France are expanding cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. He announced the launch of several joint initiatives, including the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and the National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics. The assembly line for H-125 helicopters, he said, brings together France’s technological expertise and India’s scale, with both nations working together on trusted technologies through platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor. #WATCH| Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today we are strengthening our cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. We are launching the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and…pic.twitter.com/xVhB0vjrDl President Macron described the India–France relationship as unique, built on trust, openness, and ambition. He said the partnership had been elevated to a new status and expressed confidence in its future, highlighting collaboration over the past eight years in areas including the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday and was received by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. After engagements in Mumbai, the leaders are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to attend the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. Prime Minister Modi met French President Macron in Mumbai, sharing a warm welcome ahead of delegation-level talks. The leaders aim to discuss key areas of mutual interest and strengthen Indo-French relations during Macron's three-day official visit. Macron was received by Maharashtra's Governor and Chief Minister upon arrival. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.