French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated the Indian people on the country’s 80th Independence Day, underscoring the close and expanding partnership between France and India.

Macron Sends Independence Day Greetings

French President Emmanuel Macron extended greetings to the people of India on Saturday as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day.

Macron shared his message on social media, writing, “Congratulations to the Indian people on your 80th Independence Day!” His message came as celebrations were held across India to mark the milestone occasion.

France Recognises India’s Milestone

India’s 80th Independence Day has attracted messages from leaders and governments across the world, reflecting the country’s growing international engagement.

Macron’s greeting was part of a broader series of messages from global leaders who acknowledged India’s journey since Independence and its increasing role in international affairs.

India-France Strategic Partnership

The French president’s message also comes against the backdrop of increasingly close strategic ties between Paris and New Delhi.

France and India have expanded cooperation in defence, security, space, clean energy, technology and other areas. Both countries have also maintained regular high-level diplomatic engagement.

Macron and Modi Maintain Close Engagement

Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have maintained close political engagement in recent years. The French president visited India in February 2026, when the two sides discussed further strengthening their bilateral relationship.

During that visit, Macron described the India-France relationship as being in a phase of “remarkable acceleration” and said both countries had agreed to give new ambition to their partnership.

Partnership Gains Global Importance

France and India have increasingly coordinated on issues linked to global security, strategic autonomy and emerging technologies.

Their partnership has also expanded beyond traditional defence cooperation, with both sides seeking greater collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, space and critical technologies.

India Celebrates 80 Years of Independence

India marked its 80th Independence Day on August 15 with nationwide celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country from the Red Fort in New Delhi, highlighting India's development journey and the government's long-term vision for a developed India by 2047.

The milestone has also generated widespread international attention, with leaders from several countries conveying greetings to India and Prime Minister Modi.

France Reaffirms Close Relationship

Macron’s Independence Day message reinforces the significance France attaches to its relationship with India.

As both countries seek to deepen their strategic partnership, the latest greeting highlights the diplomatic goodwill between Paris and New Delhi and comes at a time when India’s global role continues to expand.