Macron Breaks Diplomatic Protocol With Hindi Message for PM Modi, Calls Him 'Priya Mitr'

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a special farewell message in Hindi for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the growing warmth in bilateral ties and the close personal rapport shared by the two leaders. The gesture came at the conclusion of Modi's visit to France and drew attention for its use of Hindi in a diplomatic setting, reflecting the deepening friendship between the two nations.

In a personalised video message, Macron addressed the Indian Prime Minister as "Priya mitr" (Dear friend) and said, "Mujhe bahut khushi hai, daure ke liye swagat karte, France Bharat ki dosti amar rahe," expressing his happiness over the visit and wishing that the friendship between France and India remains everlasting. After speaking in Hindi, Macron smiled and asked in English, "I hope it was correct," before continuing with his remarks.

The French President thanked Modi for what he described as a highly productive visit and praised the strong relationship between the two countries. "Thank you for your visit. Thank you for our friendship. It was a very fruitful visit. France loves you. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon, in February. Jai Hind," Macron said, reinforcing the personal and diplomatic bond between the leaders.

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Prime Minister Modi's visit to France featured high-level bilateral discussions with Macron at Villa Kerylos in Nice, participation in the G7 Summit and engagements with startups and technology leaders during VivaTech 2026. The visit focused on strengthening cooperation in strategic sectors while exploring new opportunities for collaboration in innovation and emerging technologies.

During their meetings, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the France-India Special Global Strategic Partnership and agreed to expand cooperation across defence, space and technology. Discussions included enhancing defence collaboration through co-design and co-production initiatives, while also increasing cooperation in human spaceflight programmes and private-sector space ventures.

The rare use of Hindi by a foreign head of state in an official farewell message underscored the evolving relationship between France and India beyond traditional diplomacy. The leaders reiterated their shared vision of closer strategic ties and continued collaboration on global challenges, with both countries aiming to deepen engagement across political, economic, technological and security domains in the years ahead.

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