Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday discussed efforts to end the Ukraine conflict while reviewing progress in bilateral cooperation across defence, technology and space.
The conversation reaffirmed the strength of the India–France Strategic Partnership, guided by the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, the Indo-Pacific Roadmap and the Defence Industrial Roadmap. A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said the two leaders “reviewed and positively assessed the developments in bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including economics, defence, science, technology, and space.”
On Ukraine, Modi reiterated New Delhi’s longstanding stand in favour of dialogue. “They exchanged views on recent efforts towards bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine. PM Modi reiterated India's consistent support for peaceful resolution of the conflict and early restoration of peace and stability,” the release noted.
Macron, who earlier this week announced plans for a multinational “reassurance force” to be deployed in Ukraine, also shared France’s perspective following the Paris summit that gathered 26 nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the meet, while leaders such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined virtually.
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Modi thanked Macron for accepting an invitation to attend the AI Impact Summit, to be hosted by India in February 2026, and said he looked forward to welcoming the French leader in person. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and coordinate on international issues.
On social media platform X, Modi wrote: “Had a very good conversation with President Macron. We reviewed and positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in various areas. Exchanged views on international and regional issues, including efforts for bringing an early end to the conflict in Ukraine. The India–France Strategic Partnership will continue to play a key role in fostering global peace and stability.”
India has consistently emphasised that diplomacy is the only route to peace in Ukraine. At the United Nations General Assembly debate earlier this week, India’s Permanent Representative P Harish declared: “We maintain that the loss of innocent lives is unacceptable, and no solution can be found on the battlefield. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on several occasions, ‘This is not an era of war’. India stands ready to support diplomatic efforts for an early end to the conflict.”
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