PM Modi, President Macron hold bilateral talks in Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held high-level bilateral talks at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, focusing on strengthening the 'Horizon 2047' strategic partnership. Key discussions centered on the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, a deal estimated at 35 billion dollars, and additional Rafale Marine jets for the Navy. The leaders also virtually inaugurated a final assembly line for H-125 civilian helicopters in Kolar, Karnataka. Beyond defence, the agenda covered cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and trade, with both nations celebrating the 'Year of Innovation'. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also held a parallel meeting with his French counterpart in Bengaluru to discuss missile systems and aviation infrastructure.