| Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations
This topic is not much relevant in the context of Prelims but more for Mains in the context of Indo-French relations. |
| Context: |
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- Prime Minister Modi, enjoying domestic popularity, sees Macron’s visit as a continuation of high-level political engagement from Western leaders amid controversies over the temple project and discussions on India’s secularism.
- Despite media critiques, the visit underscores the separation of Western geopolitical interests from media articulation of liberal ideology.
- While the leaders issued an ambitious framework named Horizon 2047 during their last meeting, the visit aims to showcase progress in implementing plans related to defense, nuclear energy, and other areas.
- The in-principle deals on Rafale Marine aircraft and Scorpene submarines, along with technology transfer for jet engines, remain points of interest, and the visit may shed light on the advancement of these agreements.
- The international context has evolved since the leaders’ last meeting, with new geopolitical realities.
- Developments include Ukraine’s counter-offensive stalling against Russia, heightened tensions in the Middle East, and the prospect of Donald Trump’s return, generating fears of renewed political chaos and policy shifts in Washington.
- Modi and Macron must navigate the rapidly changing global landscape, adapting to new dynamics in the US and addressing challenges posed by Trump’s policies.
- The concept of a multipolar world, traditionally embraced by India and France, faces a test as the US contemplates retrenchment.
- The idea of strategic autonomy is also challenged, requiring a reassessment of foreign policy identities in the face of potential US retreat.
- The leaders should focus on concrete issues, such as stabilizing regions like Ukraine and Central Europe, enhancing India’s contributions to European security, and addressing the protection of strategic sea lanes in West Asia.
- The real challenge lies in developing practical solutions to stabilize Eurasia and its waters, especially if the US, which historically played a crucial role, considers a reevaluation of its global role.
- Macron’s visit goes beyond ceremonial aspects, presenting an opportunity for India and France to reassess their strategic cooperation amid changing global dynamics and uncertainties in the international order.
- The leaders need to address tangible challenges and develop collaborative solutions to ensure regional stability and security.
| PYQ: What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism? (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2019) |
| Practice Question: How does the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India contribute to the strategic cooperation between the two nations, considering the changing global dynamics. (150 words/10 m) |
