Indian, French leaders discuss strategic partnership at G20 summit

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their commitment Tuesday to advancing the India-France Strategic partnership, according to a statement from the Indian Prime Minister's Office.

It came as they discussed advancing relations and cooperation during a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro.

They praised progress in key areas, including defense, space and civil nuclear energy, and pledged to accelerate efforts to strengthen their shared commitment to strategic autonomy.

The leaders also discussed enhanced trade, investment and technology ties, particularly in digital technology and artificial intelligence.

- Regional, global issues

Modi and Macron exchanged views on regional and global issues, including the Indo-Pacific, and reiterated their determination to work together to reform multilateralism and promote a stable international order.

Macron commended the richness of the India-France partnership in an X post, while Modi congratulated the French president on hosting the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier this year.

It was the third meeting between the two leaders this year, following Macron’s visit to India as chief guest for Republic Day celebrations in January, and their encounter at the G7 summit in Italy in June.