Sunil Bharti Mittal to Receive France's Highest Honour

Sunil Bharti Mittal is set to receive France's highest civilian honour from President Macron, in recognition of his contributions to strengthening economic ties between India and France. The honour also acknowledges his achievements in telecommunications and digital infrastructure.

Mittal's association with France began in 1992, when French company Compagnie Générale des Eaux partnered with Bharti to introduce mobile telephony in India. Since then, Mittal has continued to invest in French companies, including Eutelsat, a Paris-headquartered satellite communications company. Bharti Space participated in Eutelsat's capital raise in November 2025 and remains its largest private shareholder, with a 17.88% stake.

The French state also holds a significant stake in Eutelsat, with a 29.65% holding, making it the company's largest shareholder. Mittal's investments in French companies demonstrate his commitment to strengthening economic ties between India and France.

Mittal has previously received several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian awards, in 2007. In 2024, he became the first Indian citizen to receive an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) from King Charles III.

## Why it matters The recognition of Mittal's contributions to strengthening economic ties between India and France comes as the two countries continue to deepen cooperation in strategic sectors, including telecommunications, digital infrastructure, and satellite communications. This cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on the economies of both countries, and Mittal's honour is a testament to the importance of his role in promoting economic ties between India and France.

The award is also a reflection of Mittal's long-standing association with France, which spans over three decades. His commitment to investing in French companies and promoting economic cooperation between India and France has made a significant impact on the bilateral relationship between the two countries.