President Macron charms Mumbai, ‘the city of dreams’

Macron's Warm Welcome in the City of Dreams

French President Emmanuel Macron touched down in Mumbai late on February 17, 2026, marking the start of his three-day official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This was his fourth trip to the country since taking office in 2017, but his first time setting foot in the bustling financial capital, often called the "city of dreams" for its vibrant mix of ambition, culture, and opportunity. Accompanied by his wife Brigitte, Macron wasted no time immersing himself in the city's energy. Just hours after arrival, he took a midnight stroll through the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage site buzzing with history and daily commuter life.

Under heavy security, the president walked the grand halls, drawing surprised glances from late-night chai sippers and workers, a gesture that humanized his high-profile diplomatic mission. The next morning, he kicked off Day 1 with a casual jog along the walkways near Churchgate and Marine Drive, dressed in blue shorts and a t-shirt, flanked by security personnel from both nations.

High-Stakes Talks and Innovation Launch

Around 3:15 PM on February 17, Macron and Modi held bilateral meetings at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, reviewing the India-France Strategic Partnership.

Their discussions delved into diversifying ties into emerging fields, guided by the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, while touching on regional and global issues like Indo-Pacific cooperation. Later, at 5:15 PM, the leaders jointly inaugurated the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, addressing an audience of business leaders, startups, researchers, and innovators from both sides.

This initiative promises a year-long celebration of collaboration in cutting-edge areas, from artificial intelligence to creative industries. The event underscored shared goals for economic growth and technological advancement.

A joint press conference followed, where Macron praised the deepening partnership.

Thank you, Prime Minister, for your warm welcome here in India. It is my fourth official visit, and our partnerships will be strengthened in artificial intelligence, economies, and strategic cooperation as per our 2027 roadmap. This year is for making our partnership more concrete and giving it teeth.

Talks also hinted at potential defense deals, including multibillion-dollar agreements for Rafale fighter jets, though specifics remained under wraps.

Broader Agenda and Lasting Impact

Macron's itinerary extends beyond Mumbai, with plans to attend the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on February 18 and 19, highlighting India's leadership in artificial intelligence.

Prime Minister Modi had personally welcomed Macron on social media, expressing confidence that their discussions would elevate bilateral ties across sectors and contribute to global progress. The visit builds on Modi's trip to France in February 2025, reflecting mutual trust in their strategic alliance.

Macron's spontaneous outings – from the jog to the heritage station visit – charmed locals and media alike, portraying a leader at ease in Mumbai's dynamic streets. These moments contrasted with the serious diplomacy, blending personal relatability with official pomp.

As the "city of dreams" hosted this global figure, it symbolized India's rising stature and France's keen interest in partnering for the future. The interactions signal stronger economic, tech, and security bonds ahead.

In summary, President Macron's Mumbai stopover combined diplomatic milestones like bilateral summits and innovation launches with endearing public appearances, reinforcing India-France ties amid Mumbai's spirited backdrop. His visit promises to propel cooperation in AI, defense, and beyond into 2026 and further.