EAM S. Jaishankar concluded his France and Luxembourg visit, meeting leaders including President Macron and PM Luc Frieden. Discussions spanned innovation, defence, fintech, and AI, while Jaishankar addressed France’s Ambassadors Conference as Guest of Honour. The trip reinforced India’s growing engagement with Europe and its role in global strategic partnerships.
India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has wrapped up a significant diplomatic tour of France and Luxembourg (January 4–9, 2026), reinforcing India’s strategic outreach to Europe. The visit highlighted India’s commitment to deepening ties with key European partners across innovation, defence, and economic cooperation.
France: Innovation and Strategic Autonomy
In Paris, Jaishankar met President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, with discussions centered on the India-France Year of Innovation. Both sides explored collaboration in technology, startups, health, education, and mobility, while reaffirming cooperation in defence, space, civil nuclear energy, and maritime security.
Jaishankar also addressed the 31st Conference of Ambassadors of France as Guest of Honour, becoming the first non-European Foreign Minister to do so. His remarks emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy and adapting to contemporary global shifts.
Luxembourg: Finance and Future Technologies
In Luxembourg, Jaishankar held talks with Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Deputy PM Xavier Bettel, focusing on expanding cooperation in finance, investment, fintech, space, and AI. He described Luxembourg as a “very important partner” for India, both bilaterally and within the European Union, especially at a time of global economic transformation.
Broader Implications
The visit reflects India’s growing engagement with Europe, positioning itself as a reliable partner amid geopolitical uncertainties. By strengthening ties with France and Luxembourg, India is not only enhancing bilateral relations but also reinforcing its role in shaping global conversations on innovation, security, and economic resilience.
Key Highlights
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France focus: Meetings with President Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot; emphasis on India-France Year of Innovation.
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Strategic cooperation: Defence, security, space, civil nuclear, and maritime security discussed.
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Global recognition: Jaishankar became the first non-European Foreign Minister to address France’s Conference of Ambassadors as Guest of Honour.
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Luxembourg ties: Talks with PM Luc Frieden and Deputy PM Xavier Bettel on finance, investment, fintech, and AI.
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EU engagement: Luxembourg reaffirmed as a “very important partner” for India within the European Union.
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Broader context: Visit strengthens India’s role in Europe amid global geopolitical shifts.
Conclusion
Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to France and Luxembourg marks a milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach, blending strategic cooperation with innovation-driven partnerships. The engagements reaffirm India’s commitment to building stronger bridges with Europe in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Sources: News On Air, MEA Press Release, Deccan Herald, NewKerala
