Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France marks a significant step in deepening bilateral ties between the two nations. The visit comes at a crucial time as both countries seek to strengthen cooperation in defense, nuclear energy, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Among the key developments expected during the visit are the finalization of deals for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three Scorpene submarines, alongside discussions on AI governance and strategic economic collaborations. This visit underscores India and France’s long-standing diplomatic relationship and their shared vision for global security and innovation.
India-France Relations: A Historical Overview
India and France have enjoyed a robust diplomatic relationship for over seven decades, marked by strong strategic, defense, and economic partnerships. Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1947, and since then, both nations have collaborated in key sectors, including defense, space research, nuclear energy, and infrastructure development.
One of the most notable collaborations is in the defense sector. France has been one of India’s most trusted arms suppliers, with agreements like the Mirage-2000 aircraft deal in the 1980s and, more recently, the procurement of 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force in 2016. Additionally, the two countries have worked together on nuclear energy projects, including agreements for the construction of nuclear power plants in India.
The two nations also have a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, advocating for a free and open maritime domain. Given these strong foundations, Modi’s visit to France aims to elevate the partnership to new heights.
Key Defense Agreements: Rafale-M and Scorpene Submarines
One of the biggest highlights of PM Modi’s visit is the impending approval of two major defense deals. India is set to acquire 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets, including single-seat and twin-seat trainer aircraft, for the Indian Navy. The deal, estimated at Rs 63,000 crore, awaits final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The jets, equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, will be deployed on India’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, enhancing the country’s maritime security capabilities.
Similarly, the Rs 33,500 crore deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines, to be built in collaboration with France’s Naval Group at Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL), is expected to be finalized soon. These submarines will bolster India’s underwater defense capabilities and further its strategic deterrence in the Indian Ocean.
AI Governance and the AI Action Summit
Another key focus of Modi’s visit is the AI Action Summit, which he is co-chairing with French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit aims to establish a global framework for ethical AI governance, promote innovation in AI technologies, and strengthen collaboration between nations in the AI domain.
India and France are also exploring cooperation between India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and France’s Safran to develop jet engines for India’s fifth-generation stealth fighter project. This initiative aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defense technology.
Strengthening Economic and Nuclear Energy Ties
Beyond defense and AI, Modi’s visit also aims to enhance India-France economic ties. Both leaders are set to attend the India-France CEO Forum to facilitate business engagements and trade opportunities. France is one of India’s key trade partners in the European Union, with bilateral trade crossing $12 billion in recent years.
On the nuclear energy front, PM Modi and Macron are expected to visit Cadarache, home to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a global collaborative project focused on harnessing clean nuclear fusion energy. India is a key participant in this initiative, and the visit could lead to further collaborations in the nuclear sector.
Inaugurating the Indian Consulate in Marseille
During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the Consulate General of India in Marseille, fulfilling a commitment made during his 2023 visit. This move is expected to strengthen India’s diplomatic presence in France and facilitate greater engagement with the Indian diaspora and businesses in the region.
Additionally, Modi will pay tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in World War I at the Mazargues War Cemetery, reinforcing historical ties between the two nations.
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
An important topic on the agenda is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a strategic trade initiative announced during the G20 Summit in New Delhi in 2023. The corridor aims to enhance trade connectivity between Mumbai and Marseille, acting as a crucial economic link between Asia and Europe. Discussions between Modi and Macron are expected to accelerate progress on this initiative, solidifying economic ties between the two nations.
A landmark moment
PM Modi’s visit to France is set to be a landmark moment in India-France relations, encompassing defense, economic cooperation, AI governance, and nuclear energy collaborations. The strengthening of strategic ties between the two nations underscores their commitment to fostering global security, technological innovation, and economic development. As India and France look toward the future, this visit reaffirms their partnership as key players in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of the 21st century.
(With inputs from agencies)
