AI Summit 2026: Emmanuel Macron Lands in Mumbai for Strategic Talks, Innovation Launch & AI Collaboration

Mumbai: French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday, marking the beginning of his three-day official visit to India from February 17 to 19, 2026. Accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, the visit underscores the expanding strategic partnership between India and France.

This is Macron’s fourth visit to India — and his first to Mumbai — reflecting the growing diplomatic and economic significance of the financial capital in bilateral engagements.

The French President is visiting at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

High-Level Bilateral Talks in Mumbai

The core of Macron’s Mumbai itinerary centers around bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Modi. The two leaders are scheduled to meet at Lok Bhavan around 3:15 PM on February 17, where they will review progress under the India–France Strategic Partnership.

Talks are expected to cover:

• Defence cooperation
• Space and civil nuclear collaboration
• Climate initiatives
• Emerging technologies
• Indo-Pacific security
• Regional and global geopolitical developments

Following their discussions, the leaders will exchange Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and issue a joint press statement.

Launch of India–France Year of Innovation 2026

At approximately 5:15 PM, the two leaders will officially launch the India–France Year of Innovation 2026. The initiative aims to deepen cooperation in technology, research, start-ups, education, and people-to-people exchanges throughout the year.

The launch event will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators from both nations.

The historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is set to host the India–France Innovation Forum, while cultural commemorations linked to the Year of Innovation will take place near the iconic Gateway of India.

Focus on Artificial Intelligence

A key highlight of Macron’s visit is his participation in India’s AI initiatives. The French President will attend the AI Impact Summit, aligning with India’s broader push to position itself as a global AI leader.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event is expected to draw policymakers, technologists, and industry leaders from across the world to discuss responsible AI, innovation frameworks, and global digital governance.

India has been actively promoting collaborative AI ecosystems, and France remains a key European partner in advanced technology and digital policy.

Strengthening a Strategic Partnership

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit aims to impart fresh momentum to the already robust India–France partnership, which spans defence procurement, maritime security, renewable energy, and education exchanges.

Official MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomed President Macron upon arrival, highlighting the shared commitment toward expanding cooperation in innovation and emerging sectors.

The Year of Innovation 2026 is expected to serve as a cornerstone initiative, fostering joint research programs, academic collaborations, and technology-driven industrial partnerships throughout the year.

Why This Visit Matters

Macron’s Mumbai visit signals:

• France’s commitment to Indo-Pacific engagement
• Deeper economic integration between the two nations
• Expanded collaboration in AI and emerging technologies
• Stronger cultural and innovation ties

As global competition in technology and geopolitics intensifies, India and France appear poised to elevate their partnership into new strategic domains.