National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal: India and France have reaffirmed their deep-rooted partnership by committing to democratic values, the rule of law, global peace efforts, and reforms in international institutions. The announcement came during high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, where both leaders also highlighted cultural collaboration, including the landmark National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal project.
The visit marks a significant moment in India-France relations, as the two countries officially elevated their bilateral ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, reinforcing their shared vision for stability in an increasingly uncertain world.
फ्रांस के राष्ट्रपति इमैनुएल मैक्रों के साथ संयुक्त प्रेस कॉन्फ्रेंस के दौरान माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी जी ने कहा, “फ्रेंड्स, भारत और फ्रांस दोनों ही प्राचीन और समृद्ध सभ्यताएँ हैं। हम अपने सांस्कृतिक और पीपल-टू-पीपल संबंधों को बहुत महत्व देते हैं। हमें बहुत खुशी है… pic.twitter.com/6xBitZN5EL
— Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (@shipmin_india) February 21, 2026
India-France Relations Strengthened Amid Global Uncertainty
Addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai, Prime Minister Modi underlined that India and France stand united in their belief in democracy, multilateral cooperation, and a multipolar global order.
“India and France share a strong commitment to democratic values and the rule of law,” Modi said. “We both believe that reforming global institutions is essential to effectively address international challenges.”
The leaders agreed that existing global frameworks must evolve to better represent emerging economies and respond to modern crises, including geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and climate change.
In today’s rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, the India-France partnership is being viewed as a stabilising force. According to PM Modi, the relationship is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared long-term vision for peace and prosperity.
Special Global Strategic Partnership: A New Chapter
The elevation of bilateral ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership reflects the growing depth of cooperation between New Delhi and Paris. PM Modi described the partnership as one of the strongest and most reliable strategic relationships in the world.
“The friendship between India and France has no boundaries,” he said. “Our cooperation can extend from the deep oceans to the tallest mountains.”
This upgraded partnership is expected to expand collaboration in defence, maritime security, renewable energy, aerospace, infrastructure development, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and space research.
President Macron’s visit — his fourth to India — highlights France’s continued strategic focus on strengthening ties with Asia’s third-largest economy.
Joint Commitment to Peace in Ukraine, West Asia and Indo-Pacific
A major highlight of the talks was the shared commitment to global peace efforts. PM Modi stated that India and France will continue supporting diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives in conflict-affected regions, including Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific.
Both nations also reiterated their zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.
“We share a common commitment to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Modi said, reaffirming deeper intelligence-sharing and counter-terror cooperation.
France remains a key European partner in the Indo-Pacific region, while India continues to expand its strategic maritime presence. Their cooperation includes joint naval exercises, maritime domain awareness initiatives, and efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in international waters.
National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal: A Cultural and Strategic Collaboration
One of the most significant cultural collaborations discussed during the meeting was the National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal, a flagship heritage project being developed in Gujarat.
Lothal, one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation, was historically known for its advanced dockyard and maritime trade network. The upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal aims to become a world-class museum and research centre dedicated to showcasing India’s rich maritime history.
The project will feature:
- Exhibits on ancient Indian shipbuilding and trade routes
- Interactive maritime galleries
- Research and conservation facilities
- Educational and tourism infrastructure
French expertise in museum design, heritage conservation, and cultural management is expected to contribute significantly to the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal.
The project is not just about preserving history — it is also expected to boost tourism, generate employment, and position India as a global maritime heritage destination.
Strengthening Cultural and People-to-People Ties
Highlighting the civilisational depth of both nations, PM Modi described India and France as ancient and culturally rich societies with long-standing intellectual and artistic exchanges.
“We attach great importance to our cultural and people-to-people ties,” he said.
In addition to the National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal, other cultural initiatives include the Jewel Museum collaboration and the soon-to-be-inaugurated Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in France. The centre will promote Indian philosophy, yoga, classical arts, and literature among French citizens.
Such initiatives are aimed at bringing the people of both countries closer beyond strategic and economic cooperation.
Macron’s Visit to India: Expanding Economic Cooperation
President Macron, accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, is on a multi-day visit to India, covering Mumbai and New Delhi.
The visit is expected to boost bilateral trade, defence partnerships, climate cooperation, and investments in renewable energy and infrastructure. France has consistently been one of India’s most trusted defence partners, and further agreements are anticipated to strengthen this collaboration.
Economic ties between the two countries have grown steadily, with France being among the top European investors in India.
Also read: Lothal Archaeological Site Tourism Guide: History, Timings, and Lothal Museum Ticket Price Explained
Reforming Global Institutions for a Multipolar World
Both leaders emphasised the urgent need for reform in global institutions to reflect modern geopolitical realities. India has long advocated for reforms in bodies such as the United Nations to ensure fair representation for developing countries.
France has supported India’s aspirations for a greater role in global decision-making platforms, reinforcing the strategic alignment between the two democracies.
The push for a multipolar world order reflects their shared goal of reducing over-dependence on any single power centre and promoting balanced global governance.
Also read: Is the National Maritime Museum Worth Visiting? A Complete and Honest Guide for Visitors
A Shared Vision for Global Stability and Prosperity
Concluding the discussions, PM Modi expressed confidence that the strengthened India-France partnership would contribute significantly to global stability and economic growth.
“I am particularly happy that today we are starting a new chapter in our relations,” he said. “Let us work together for global stability and prosperity.”
With expanded cooperation across defence, culture, maritime heritage, and institutional reform — including the ambitious National Maritime Heritage Complex Lothal — India and France are positioning themselves as key partners in shaping the future of global governance.
As global challenges continue to evolve, the India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership stands out as a model of trust, shared democratic values, and long-term strategic collaboration.
