French President Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day visit to India, starting February 17, 2026, focusing on strengthening the Franco-Indian partnership, particularly through a potential historic contract for 114 additional Dassault Rafale fighter jets worth nearly 30 billion euros. The visit also includes launching an artificial intelligence (IA) summit in New Delhi to counter the dominance of Washington and Beijing in the global IA race.
Why it matters
This high-level visit aims to solidify France's strategic axis with India, positioning both nations as key players against the geopolitical pressures exerted by the US and China, while also boosting French economic ties.
Key points
- The potential Rafale deal would add to the 62 jets India has already purchased, signaling India's choice of France as a central military partner.
- Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate an Airbus helicopter final assembly line in Bangalore.
- Discussions will address global economic uncertainty stemming from US President Donald Trump's tariff policies and China's growing influence.
- Macron is also scheduled to meet with Bollywood film stars to discuss potential cooperation in the cinema sector.
- India's continued purchase of Russian oil and failure to condemn the invasion of Ukraine remains a sensitive, though secondary, issue.
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