Hindu Editorial Analysis : 14-July-2023
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Paris as the guest of honour during the Bastille Day celebrations coincides with the 25th anniversary of India’s oldest strategic partnership with France. The bilateral relationship between the two nations has flourished over the years, marked by strong trade and commerce, defense cooperation, joint efforts on climate change, and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
Trade and Commerce:
France has emerged as a key trading partner for India, with annual trade reaching $12.42 billion in 2021-22. Additionally, France ranks as the 11th largest foreign investor in India, with a cumulative investment of $10.31 billion over the past two decades. This robust economic partnership has fostered growth and collaboration in various sectors, contributing to the development of both nations.
Defense Cooperation:
The defense relationship between India and France has been instrumental in strengthening strategic ties. France has become the second-largest defense supplier to India, supplying critical defense equipment and technology. Notable examples include the induction of French Scorpene submarines, the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets by the Indian Air Force, and the Tata group’s collaboration with Airbus to manufacture C-295 tactical transport aircraft in India. Regular military dialogues and joint exercises further enhance the defense partnership.
Climate Change Initiatives:
India and France share a common commitment to mitigating climate change. India has supported France in the Paris Agreement and both countries jointly launched the International Solar Alliance in 2015. Recently, they signed a Road Map on Green Hydrogen, aiming to establish a reliable and sustainable value chain for a global supply of decarbonized hydrogen. This collaborative approach highlights the shared determination to address environmental challenges and promote clean energy solutions.
Indo-Pacific Cooperation:
India and France recognize the significance of the Indo-Pacific region and have been working together to enhance regional cooperation. The “Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region” serves as a blueprint for strengthening ties, including joint patrolling in the Indian Ocean. The establishment of an Indo-Pacific Trilateral Development Cooperation Fund, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates, underscores the commitment to security and development in the region. This trilateral grouping aims to ensure stability from the east coast of Africa to the far Pacific.
Significance of the Visit:
The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds immense opportunities for further strengthening the India-France partnership. The visit is expected to witness agreements or announcements on defense acquisitions, including the acquisition of 26 Rafale-M fighters for the Indian Navy and co-production of three more Scorpene class submarines. The French deals offer stability and predictability, without the complications associated with US defense deals.
Digital Technology Cooperation:
India and France are likely to explore avenues for cooperation in digital technology, including areas such as 6G, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. This cooperation is crucial for advancing technological innovation and fostering mutual growth in the digital sphere.
Common Grounds for Cooperation:
Both India and France share common values, including the pursuit of strategic autonomy, independent foreign policies, and the promotion of a multipolar world order. While recognizing the importance of the United States, both nations strive to maintain their independence and actively contribute to shaping global affairs.
Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific:
Given France’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region, it serves as a valuable partner for India in building maritime domain awareness and monitoring China’s activities. This collaboration augments India’s participation in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) and enhances regional stability.aZ
Why In News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the esteemed guest of honour, graces the Bastille Day celebrations in Paris, strengthening the bilateral ties between India and France. This momentous occasion marks the confluence of two significant events: the Prime Minister’s presence at the celebration and the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of India’s oldest strategic partnership, which stands tall among nearly 30 alliances forged across the globe.
MCQs about India-France Strategic Partnership
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What country is India’s oldest strategic partner?
A. USA
B. France
C. United Kingdom
D. Germany
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Which sector has witnessed significant collaboration between India and France?
A. Agriculture
B. Education
C. Defense
D. Tourism
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What joint initiative did India and France launch in 2015 to combat climate change?
A. International Solar Alliance
B. Green Hydrogen Road Map
C. Indo-Pacific Trilateral Development Cooperation Fund
D. Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation
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What is the significance of France’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region for India?
A. Strengthening trade relations
B. Enhancing maritime domain awareness
C. Expanding cultural exchanges
D. Facilitating technology transfer
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