In a testament to burgeoning India-France relations, President Emmanuel Macron declared his fondness for Mumbai during talks with PM Narendra Modi. Modi promptly posted on X: ‘Thrilled to meet friend President Macron in Mumbai! He shared how much he adores the city and his morning jog.’ The post, with a friendly photo, went viral.
Macron and First Lady Brigitte landed in Mumbai early Tuesday. Soon after, he hit Marine Drive for a jog in casual blue shorts and tee, epitomizing disciplined fitness amid heavy security from both nations and local police.
Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis greeted the dignitaries at the airport. A solemn moment followed at the Taj Hotel, honoring 26/11 victims. Cultural exchanges sparkled with meetings alongside Bollywood icons Manoj Bajpayee, Anil Kapoor, Shabana Azmi, Zoya Akhtar, and Richa Chadha.
The leaders will jointly unveil India-France Innovation Year 2026 tonight, engaging tycoons, entrepreneurs, scientists, and innovators. Macron heads to Delhi next for the AI Impact Summit. This is his fourth India trip: inaugural in 2018, G20 in 2023, Republic Day chief guest in 2024, and now Mumbai debut.
Strategic ties since 1998 propel cooperation in defense, technology, space, and renewables. Analysts view the visit as a milestone for future synergies.