French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a farewell message in Hindi to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the leader departed Paris on June 18, 2026 [1].

This gesture signals a deepening of diplomatic ties between France and India. By using the prime minister's native language, Macron emphasized a personal rapport intended to strengthen strategic partnerships between the two nations.

During the departure, Macron used the phrase "Priye mitr," meaning dear friend [2]. He said, "Mujhe bahut khushi hui," which translates to "I am very happy" [3]. These phrases were part of a broader effort to thank Modi for his visit to France and to highlight the growing cooperation between the two governments [3].

The interaction followed a visit where Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Paris [1]. The diplomatic engagement focused on mutual interests and the reinforcement of bilateral relations. Macron used the occasion to look toward future cooperation, a sentiment mirrored in his travel plans.

Macron said, "I plan to visit India in February next year" [4]. This upcoming trip suggests that the discussions held during Modi's visit in June will continue to evolve into concrete policy and trade agreements.

While some reports focused on the initial greeting upon Modi's arrival in France [5], the Hindi farewell marked the conclusion of the official visit. The use of language as a diplomatic tool is a recurring theme in Macron's approach to the Indo-Pacific region, where France seeks to maintain a significant presence.

“"Priye mitr"”

The use of Hindi by a G7 leader is a calculated piece of soft-power diplomacy. It transcends standard protocol to build a 'special relationship' with India, which France views as a critical strategic partner in countering regional instability and expanding trade in the Indo-Pacific.