Om Birla Hails France as India’s Trusted Strategic Partner, Calls for Deeper Collaboration

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today reaffirmed France's position as one of India's most trusted and longstanding partners, highlighting the growing strength of bilateral ties rooted in mutual trust, strategic cooperation, and shared democratic values.

Speaking during an interaction with the visiting France–India Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group of the Senate of France at Parliament House, Shri Birla underscored that the strong personal rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron has significantly accelerated the momentum of India–France relations.

Strategic Partnership Enters a New Phase

Referring to President Macron's visit to India in February 2026, Shri Birla noted that the elevation of bilateral ties to a "Special Global Strategic Partnership" marks a new chapter in the relationship—reflecting deeper cooperation across defence, technology, climate action, and global governance.

He emphasized that the partnership is built on shared values of democracy, multilateralism, and a commitment to global peace and stability.

Parliamentary Cooperation as a Key Pillar

Highlighting the importance of legislative engagement, the Speaker described parliamentary cooperation as a vital pillar of India–France relations. He recalled several high-level exchanges, including the visit of French Senate Chairman Gérard Larcher to India in 2024, which strengthened institutional ties between the two legislatures.

Shri Birla also noted the regular and constructive dialogue between the two nations at both diplomatic and parliamentary levels, fostering greater understanding and collaboration.

Women's Representation and Inclusive Governance

Applauding France's progress in gender representation—with women constituting over 36% of its Parliament—Shri Birla pointed out that India is also making significant strides in promoting women's participation in governance.

He highlighted the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, the first bill cleared in the new Parliament building, which provides for one-third reservation for women in legislative bodies. The legislation, he said, reflects India's strong commitment to women-led development and inclusive democracy.

He further noted the encouraging representation of women at the grassroots level through Panchayati Raj Institutions, showcasing India's progress in decentralised governance.

Technology and AI Transforming Parliamentary Functioning

Shri Birla emphasized the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital tools in modernizing parliamentary processes. Referring to recent AI Summits held in New Delhi (2026) and Paris (2025), he observed that both countries are actively leveraging emerging technologies to enhance transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement.

He suggested greater collaboration between India and France in adopting best practices in AI-driven parliamentary systems, noting that digital innovations are helping bridge the gap between citizens and their elected representatives.

Shared Stand Against Terrorism and Global Challenges

The Speaker also acknowledged France's strong support to India on key global issues, particularly its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism. Recalling the visit of an Indian parliamentary delegation to France following Operation Sindoor, he expressed gratitude for France's solidarity during challenging times.

Expanding a Trusted Partnership

Concluding his remarks, Shri Birla reiterated that India–France relations are entering a more dynamic and comprehensive phase, driven by strategic alignment, technological cooperation, and strong people-to-people ties.

The interaction with the French delegation further reinforced the commitment of both nations to deepen collaboration across sectors, with parliamentary diplomacy playing a central role in shaping the future of this trusted partnership.