'India-France partnership key to global peace': PM Modi speaks with Macron, discusses Ukraine conflict

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, where the two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation and discussed the Ukraine conflict.

“Had a very good conversation with President Macron. We reviewed and positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in various areas,” PM Modi said on X. “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.”

The conversation came two days after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke with PM Modi, stressing that India has a crucial role in urging Russia to end the war.

“We warmly welcome India’s continued engagement with President Zelenskyy. India has an important role to play in bringing Russia to end its war of aggression and helping create a path towards peace,” von der Leyen said.

French President Emmanuel Macron was among the European leaders who joined US President Donald Trump’s talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House last month.

The Modi–Macron talks came just two days after Macron, at a Paris summit on Thursday, announced plans to deploy a “reassurance force” in Ukraine. The summit, hosted by France, was attended in person by President Zelenskyy, while leaders including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer participated remotely, according to France 24.

During their conversation, Prime Minister Modi thanked Macron for accepting India’s invitation to attend the AI Impact Summit in February 2026 and said he looked forward to welcoming him.

Both leaders agreed to stay in close touch and work together to promote peace and stability.

In a post on X, PM Modi said the India–France Strategic Partnership will “continue to play a key role in fostering global peace and stability.”