National Desk : VOC

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in India late Monday night on a three-day official visit, accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron. He landed at Mumbai airport, where he was formally received by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Governor Acharya Devrat.

Before departing for India, President Macron shared a photograph taken from his aircraft window on social media, stating that his visit aimed to further deepen and expand India–France relations. In the post, he referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “my dear friend.”

On Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Modi reshared Macron’s post and welcomed him to India, writing, “Looking forward to meeting my dear friend in Mumbai and later in Delhi.”

High-level bilateral talks between the leaders of the two countries are scheduled to take place in Mumbai on Tuesday. Discussions are expected to focus on defence cooperation, technology, trade, and strategic partnership. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) may also be signed during the visit.

One of the key issues likely to be discussed is India’s proposed purchase of additional Rafale fighter jets. Recently, India’s Defence Procurement Board granted in-principle approval for the acquisition of 114 Rafale aircraft at an estimated cost of ₹3.25 lakh crore. These fighter jets are manufactured by the French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. The deal is expected to significantly enhance the operational strength of the Indian Air Force.

After his Mumbai visit, President Macron will travel to New Delhi. On Wednesday and Thursday, he will participate in an international summit on Artificial Intelligence, where global leaders will discuss emerging technologies and future security challenges.

This marks President Macron’s fourth visit to India since assuming office. He first visited in 2018, later attended the G20 Summit in 2023, and was the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2024.

Observers believe that this visit will further strengthen the India–France strategic partnership, with major implications for defence, technology cooperation, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

National News Desk : Voice of Calcutta