Macron Affirms Strong India–France Ties, Defends Rafale Deal at AI Impact Summit

New Delhi, Feb 2026 : French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a warm and emphatic message of friendship while speaking on the sidelines of the India AI Impact Summit, underlining the depth of India–France relations and strongly defending the Rafale fighter jet agreement between the two countries. “I love your country,” Macron said, describing the partnership as unique, forward-looking, and rooted in shared strategic interests.

The French President elaborated on the scope and long-term impact of the strategic agreements between New Delhi and Paris, noting that cooperation between the two nations goes far beyond defence purchases. He expressed surprise over the criticism faced by the Rafale deal in certain sections of India, asserting that the agreement would only strengthen India’s national security while opening new avenues for technology transfer, industrial growth, and job creation.

Referring specifically to the high-value deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets, Macron said the acquisition would significantly enhance India’s defence preparedness in an increasingly complex global security environment. “I don’t understand why people are criticising the deal,” he remarked. “It will make your country stronger, deepen strategic relations between India and France, and create more jobs here in India.”

Macron emphasised that the agreement aligns closely with India’s industrial and economic priorities, particularly the Make in India initiative. He stressed that France is committed to ensuring that a maximum number of components and critical systems for the Rafale jets are manufactured in India, helping build domestic capabilities in advanced defence technologies. According to him, this approach reflects France’s intention to act not merely as a supplier, but as a long-term strategic partner.

Highlighting the broader diplomatic framework, Macron described the India–France relationship as a “Special Global Strategic Partnership,” a distinction he said is reserved for only a few nations worldwide. This partnership, he noted, encompasses defence, space, energy, climate action, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies, making it both comprehensive and future-oriented.

The French leader also signalled optimism about expanding defence cooperation beyond fighter aircraft. He said the Rafale deal should be seen as a stepping stone toward deeper collaboration, potentially extending into areas such as submarine technology and maritime security. “It’s a new step forward which will consolidate ties between the two nations. Rafale is the key, and I hope this cooperation extends to submarines,” Macron stated.

Speaking about global engagement, Macron confirmed that Narendra Modi will be invited as a special guest to the upcoming G7 summit in his capacity as Chair of BRICS. He said this invitation reflects India’s growing influence on the world stage and France’s recognition of New Delhi as a key partner in shaping global economic and strategic agendas.

Overall, Macron’s remarks underscored a strong vote of confidence in India’s leadership and capabilities. By reaffirming France’s commitment to strategic cooperation, technology sharing, and industrial collaboration, the French President projected the India–France partnership as one designed not just for present needs, but for shared global responsibilities in the decades ahead.