New Delhi, February 19 – French President Emmanuel Macron dismissed criticisms of the Rafale fighter jet deal as baffling, emphasizing its undeniable benefits for India. Speaking exclusively to IANS at the India AI Impact Summit, Macron highlighted how the agreement strengthens bilateral ties and fuels India’s defense capabilities.
Macron described the India-France partnership as a ‘special global strategic partnership’ that goes beyond mere strategy. During the summit’s inauguration at India Mandapam’s main hall, alongside the UN Secretary-General, he toured the India AI Impact Expo. In a candid exchange, he stressed the deepening collaboration.
‘Our cooperation with India is improving steadily, entering a new phase,’ Macron stated. He assured that indigenous components are being ramped up through ongoing talks between Dassault Aviation and the Indian government.
Addressing Rafale skepticism directly, Macron questioned, ‘I don’t understand why people criticize it. This will make your country stronger, deepen our strategic relations, and create jobs in India.’ He reaffirmed France’s commitment to maximizing ‘Make in India’ integration, with more Indian parts in Rafale jets, mirroring the Tata-Airbus H-125 helicopter assembly line recently inaugurated virtually by PM Modi and himself in Vemgal, Karnataka.
That project, a Tata-Airbus joint venture, promises thousands of jobs and bolsters local manufacturing. Macron extended an invitation to PM Modi for a June visit to France, where he will attend the G7 as BRICS chair. India recently approved procuring 114 more Rafales, and Macron expressed readiness for co-production, including potential submarine deals.
The Rafale deal isn’t just about aircraft; it’s a cornerstone of enduring India-France defense synergy, poised to elevate India’s self-reliance in aerospace.