India-France Deepen Strategic Partnership: Key Agreements on Nuclear, Defence, AI, and Economic Cooperation

(Source – Indian Express, Section – The Cover Page – Page No. – 01)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context

India and France held bilateral discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, leading to several key agreements aimed at deepening their strategic partnership.

Analysis of the news:

India-France Strategic Partnership: Key Outcomes

1. Strengthening Nuclear Cooperation

• India and France reaffirmed their commitment to civil nuclear energy as a key element of energy security and a low-carbon future.

• Discussions centered around the Jaitapur nuclear power plant, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and enhanced nuclear professional training through bilateral agreements.

2. Defence and Security Collaboration

Both nations reinforced defence ties under the 2024 Defence Industrial Roadmap. Key agreements included:

• Submarine Cooperation: Progress in the Scorpene submarine project, with integration of DRDO’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.

• Missile and Engine Development: Ongoing discussions on helicopter engines, jet engines, and missile systems in collaboration with Safran Group.

• Military Equipment Partnership: India invited France to explore the Pinaka MBRL system, and France included India as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Roadmap

• Building on the AI Action Summit in Paris, both nations launched an India-France AI Roadmap, emphasizing safe, open, and trustworthy AI development.

4. Expanding Economic and Technological Cooperation

• Strengthening Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation for climate and SDG-focused projects.

• France’s Proparco investing 13 million euros in Indian microfinance institutions for financial inclusion and women empowerment.

• Supporting 10 Indian startups at French incubator Station F and expanding UPI usage in France.

5. Cultural and Historical Engagement

• Prime Minister Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate in Marseille and honored Indian soldiers of World War I at Mazargues War Cemetery, reinforcing historical ties.

Conclusion

• The agreements highlight a deepening strategic partnership, expanding across nuclear energy, defence, AI, and economic collaboration, positioning India and France as key global allies.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the recent agreements between India and France. How do these developments strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations? (250 Words /15 marks)