Prime Minister Narendra Modi with French President Emmanuel Macron. File
| Photo Credit: ANI
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 Summit, France has proposed a broader maritime security partnership with India, including participation in a multinational initiative aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
French diplomatic sources said in New Delhi on Thursday (June 11, 2026) discussions between the two leaders are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including defence cooperation, maritime security, military hardware and developments in West Asia.
According to the sources, France is working with a group of partner nations to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions. India is expected to be among the countries invited to join the initiative.
The sources also revealed that leaders from India, the United States, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are expected to participate in a West Asia-focused meeting on the margins of the G7 Summit.
Briefing the media about Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming travel plans for France and Slovakia, Secretary (West) Sibi George of the Ministry of External Affairs said that when Mr. Modi and Mr. Macron meet, “All issues of interest — global issues — including the developments in West Asia will be discussed.”
Hinting at the French proposal on working with a group of partner countries for the Strait of Hormuz, he said “new announcements being made by various sides” will be discussed as well.
The Modi-Macron meeting is expected to review progress in strategic cooperation across defence, security, technology and global governance while also exchanging views on key regional and international developments.
Addressing concerns over the evolving security situation in the region, French diplomatic sources stressed the importance of maintaining open sea lanes and uninterrupted maritime trade. “We emphasise free navigation. We are not part of the war, but it has an impact on all of us,” the sources said, underlining the global economic and security implications of instability in the Gulf region.
On India’s invitation to the G7 Summit, the sources described New Delhi as a key strategic partner for France.
“India is a top priority for us; we have a special relationship. India has joined all the G7 tracks,” the sources said. The French side also highlighted the growing depth of bilateral ties, describing the relationship as one marked by a high degree of mutual trust and confidence.
“We have reached a level of trust and confidence where it is easy for both of us to talk about anything,” the sources said, adding that France is closely following India’s expanding global role, including its upcoming BRICS chairmanship and the legacy of its successful G20 Presidency.
Mr. George further said that defence-related announcements will be made during PM Modi’s visit to Slovakia during June 14-16. “We have been engaging with Slovakia in the defence sector over the last several years. There has been a close engagement. This visit would help us take this relation to a new high level of engagement,” Mr. George said, adding that there will be “specific areas that will be discussed and covered” during Mr. Modi’s visit to Slovakia.
Published – June 11, 2026 10:14 pm IST
