17 February,2026 10:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron at Gateway of India in Mumbai on Tuesday. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday inaugurated the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 at Mumbai's iconic Gateway of India, marking a major milestone in the nations' strategic partnership.
The event concluded with a spectacular lighting show at the Gateway of India in south Mumbai, highlighting the shared values, culture, and vibrant heritage of both India and France, reported ANI.
The launch event was attended by business leaders, start-ups, researchers, and other innovators from both nations.
Earlier, India and France elevated their bilateral ties to a "Special Global Strategic Partnership." PM Modi noted that the friendship between the two countries has "no boundaries" and the partnership can "reach from deep oceans to the tallest mountains," underscoring the depth and significance of the India-France relationship.
According to ANI, while speaking during a joint press conference with the French President, PM Modi said, "The strategic partnership between the two countries is one of the oldest. With the help of President Macron, we have deepened the ties and given it more energy in recent times. Based on this trust and vision, we are elevating our relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. This partnership is not just strategic. In this era of unpredictable global dynamics, it will provide global stability and progress."
French President Emmanuel Macron also said that relations between India and France are defined by "ambition and trust."
Macron added, "I thank you for your warm welcome on my fourth official visit to India. The bilateral relationship between India and France is truly remarkable and unique. It is a relationship of trust, openness, and ambition. Today, we have also decided to elevate this partnership to a Special Strategic Partnership, granting it a new status. There is no doubt about this, as we have had complete faith in this relationship for the past eight years. Each year, by working on different initiatives, we have charted many new paths."
President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron are scheduled to stay in India until February 19, visiting both the financial and national capitals. Macron arrived in Mumbai early Tuesday, marking his fourth visit to India at the invitation of PM Modi.
(With ANI inputs)
