India and France’s relationship has always been a trusted and strategic alliance, but in the last few years it has become even stronger. From the Indo-Pacific region to defense and energy, both countries are working together in important areas.
Bharat-France’s Strategic Partnership in Indo-Pacific
France’s Reunion Island is an important strategic location in the South Indian Ocean near India. France has a strong military presence here, which includes its navy, air force and army. India and France conduct regular military exercises to ensure security in the Indo-Pacific. Indian Navy warships also use French ports for refueling and logistics support, which further strengthens the maritime cooperation between the two countries.
No pressure to buy cheap oil from Russia
When the US and many European countries were pressuring India not to buy cheap oil from Russia, France did not make any such intervention. Rather, France respected India’s sovereign decisions, which is a great example of mature diplomatic ties between the two countries.
No heights in Modi-Macron era
The friendship between PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron has further strengthened the India-France relationship. PM Modi was made the chief guest at France’s Bastille Day Parade, and similarly Macron was invited as the chief guest on India’s Republic Day. These high-level engagements show how close and aligned the two countries are with each other.
Partnership growing rapidly in the Defense Sector
Rafale Fighter Jets: India purchased 36 Rafale fighter jets from France in a deal worth ₹58,891 crore. Now preparations are being made to purchase Rafale-M fighter jets for the navy as well, which will operate from INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant aircraft carriers.
Scorpene Submarines: Under the Make in India initiative, 6 Scorpene-class submarines have been built in India with the help of France, which enhances the power of the Indian Navy.
Missiles & Advanced Weapons: India has also purchased MICA and HAMMER missiles from France, which further enhance the combat capability of the Air Force.
France’s Neutral Stand on Nuclear Tests
France was the only P-5 country that did not impose sanctions against India on the Pokhran-II nuclear tests of 1998. When many countries in the US and Europe wanted to isolate India after the nuclear tests, France said that these tests will not have any impact on India-France nuclear cooperation.
France is becoming India’s biggest defense supplier
India traditionally used to buy defense equipment from Russia, but now France is becoming its biggest supplier. The defense ties between India and France are getting stronger with the sharing of Rafale jets, submarines, missiles and advanced technology.
Conclusion
India and France are not just diplomatic allies, but part of a strong strategic partnership. Considering the geo-political complexities of Indo-Pacific and global security concerns, the collaboration of the two countries is going to grow even further. Apart from defense, technology and trade, India-France friendship is also gaining new dimensions – and this friendship will continue in the future too!