India expected to be among countries invited to join initiative to secure Strait of Hormuz: French sources

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with French President Emmanuel Macron. File | Photo credit: ANI

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit, France proposed a broader maritime security partnership with India, including participation in a multinational initiative to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

French diplomatic sources said in New Delhi on Thursday (Jun 11, 2026) that discussions between the two leaders are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including defense cooperation, maritime security, military technology and developments in West Asia.

According to sources, France is working with a group of partner countries to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions. India is expected to be among the countries invited to join the initiative.

Sources also revealed that leaders from India, the United States, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are expected to attend a West Asia-focused meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

Briefing the media about Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming trip plans to France and Slovakia, Secretary (West) Sibi George of the Ministry of External Affairs said that when Mr. Modi and Mr. Macron meet, “all issues of concern – global issues – including developments in West Asia will be discussed.”

Referring to France’s proposal to cooperate with the Strait of Hormuz Group of Partner Countries, he said “new announcements made by various parties” would also be discussed.

The Modi-Macron meeting is expected to review progress in strategic cooperation in defence, security, technology and global governance, while exchanging views on key regional and international developments.

French diplomatic sources addressed concerns about the evolving security situation in the region and stressed the importance of maintaining open sea lanes and uninterrupted maritime trade. “We emphasize free navigation. We are not part of the war, but it affects all of us,” the sources said, stressing the global economic and security implications of instability in the Gulf region.

On India’s invitation to the G7 summit, sources described New Delhi as a key strategic partner for France.

“India is a top priority for us; we have a special relationship. India has joined all the G7 groups,” the sources said. The French side also highlighted the growing depth of bilateral ties, describing the relationship as one characterized by a high degree of mutual trust and confidence.

“We have reached a level of trust where it is easy for both of us to talk about anything,” the sources said, adding that France is closely watching India’s growing global role, including its upcoming BRICS presidency and the legacy of its successful G20 presidency.

Mr. George further said that defense related announcements will be made during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Slovakia on June 14-16. “We have been cooperating with Slovakia in the defense sector for the past few years. There has been close cooperation. This visit would help us take this relationship to a new high level of engagement,” Mr George said, adding that during Mr Modi’s visit to Slovakia there would be “specific areas to be discussed and discussed”.

Published – 11 Jun 2026 22:14 IST