Bharat, France and Brazil Forge a New Era of Strategic and Technological Partnership

 

In February 2026, Bharat stands at the centre of global diplomacy and innovation as Emmanuel Macron of France and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil arrive in the country. Their visits, taking place alongside a landmark artificial intelligence summit in New Delhi, reflect far more than routine diplomacy. They symbolise Bharat's rising stature as a global force in technology, innovation and geopolitical strategy.

 

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Macron is scheduled to visit Bharat from 17 to 19 February 2026, while President Lula will follow closely with his visit from 18 to 22 February. According to Bharat's Ministry of External Affairs, these engagements mark a significant step forward in strengthening Bharat's partnerships with major global powers at a time when technological transformation and shifting geopolitical balances are rapidly reshaping the world.

 

 

President Macron's visit comes at a crucial juncture in the long-standing and trusted partnership between Bharat and France. Over the years, the two nations have developed a robust alliance grounded in defence cooperation, technological collaboration and shared democratic values.

 

 

During his visit, the leaders are expected to hold extensive discussions covering defence modernisation, advanced technologies and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, an area increasingly recognised as vital to global security and economic stability. Central to these discussions is the ambitious "Horizon 2047" roadmap, a long-term strategic vision designed to deepen collaboration across sectors including artificial intelligence, space, cybersecurity and clean energy.

 

This roadmap represents more than a diplomatic framework. It reflects a shared commitment to shaping the future together, aligning with Bharat's aspiration of becoming a fully developed nation by 2047, the centenary year of its independence.

 

 

A defining highlight of this diplomatic convergence is the AI and innovation summit being hosted in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026. For the first time, Bharat is convening such a high-impact global event, bringing together world leaders, innovators and policymakers to shape the future of artificial intelligence.

 

 

This summit is not merely about technological advancement. It signals Bharat's emergence as a leading voice for the Global South in technological governance and innovation. It demonstrates how Bharat has transitioned from being a participant in global technological discussions to becoming a central architect of future innovation frameworks.

 

Bharat's leadership in AI reflects years of sustained investment in digital infrastructure, talent development and forward-looking policymaking. From its digital public infrastructure to its expanding research ecosystem, Bharat has positioned itself as a global centre for technological progress and innovation.

 

 

Further strengthening bilateral ties, Bharat and France are set to launch the India–France Year of Innovation 2026 in Mumbai. This initiative aims to deepen collaboration between researchers, start-ups, universities and industries from both countries.

 

 

The programme will encourage joint research projects, technology exchanges and innovation partnerships, particularly in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, green technologies and digital transformation. It represents a bridge between two dynamic innovation ecosystems, opening new pathways for scientific breakthroughs and long-term economic opportunities.

 

 

President Lula's visit reinforces Bharat's growing engagement with major emerging economies. Bharat and Brazil share strong ties through multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the G20, and his visit is expected to strengthen trade, investment and broader economic cooperation.

 

 

Both nations are likely to explore new opportunities in sectors including agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing and technology. Brazil's commitment to expanding its partnership with Bharat reflects confidence in Bharat's economic trajectory and its role as an increasingly influential global economic engine.

 

 

This engagement also highlights Bharat's growing reputation as a preferred partner for countries seeking balanced, mutually beneficial international relationships.

 

 

The simultaneous visits of the French and Brazilian presidents, combined with Bharat's hosting of a major global AI summit, represent a defining moment in the country's global journey.

 

This moment is the outcome of sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic planning and Bharat's steady ascent as a technological and economic powerhouse. Bharat is no longer merely participating in global conversations; it is actively shaping them.

 

 

As global leaders gather in New Delhi, their presence conveys a clear message: Bharat has emerged as a centre of innovation, diplomacy and strategic leadership. These partnerships are strengthening Bharat's global standing today while laying the foundation for a future in which Bharat plays a central role in defining the world's technological and geopolitical landscape.