Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron to India with a message on X, signalling renewed momentum in bilateral ties as Macron began a three-day official visit focused on artificial intelligence, defence cooperation, and the broader strategic partnership between the two countries.

“Welcome to India! India is delighted to welcome your visit and intends to give new momentum to our strategic partnership. See you very soon in Mumbai, then in Delhi, my dear friend,” Modi wrote.

Earlier, Macron shared a post from his flight, saying he was travelling with a delegation of business, economic, industrial, cultural, and digital leaders to strengthen cooperation across key sectors. “En route to India. Together, we will go even further in our cooperation. See you tomorrow, my dear friend @NarendraModi,” he said.

Macron arrived in Mumbai on Monday night along with First Lady Brigitte Macron for the official visit scheduled from February 17 to 19. Artificial intelligence is expected to be a central theme of discussions, along with a renewed push for strategic and defence collaboration. Talks are likely to include joint manufacturing of helicopters and HAMMER precision-guided missiles, reflecting growing defence ties between the two nations.

The French president was received at the Mumbai airport by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This marks Macron’s fourth visit to India and will include participation in the AI Impact Summit, followed by high-level bilateral meetings aimed at deepening India–France cooperation.