PM Modi, Macron Discuss Peace in Ukraine and West Asia, Vow to Boost Strategic Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a phone conversation on Thursday, focusing on efforts to end conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. Both leaders stressed the need for peaceful resolutions and early restoration of stability, with Macron sharing his perspectives from recent high-level talks in Washington and Gaza. The two leaders also reviewed progress in India–France bilateral cooperation across defence, civil nuclear energy, technology, and trade, reaffirming their commitment to deepen the strategic partnership. They declared 2026 as the "Year of Innovation" and pledged to work towards the early conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement. The call comes amid intensifying geopolitical challenges, with both India and France seeking to balance diplomacy, peace efforts, and strategic collaboration.