Recent partnership between India and France
Why in News:
- India and France have strengthened their bilateral ties, emphasizing environmental sustainability, innovation, and strategic cooperation. This editorial explores the evolving Indo-French partnership and its significance under the Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
Introduction:
Historical Development of India-France Relationship:
Post-Independence Period (1947-1991):
- Establishment of diplomatic ties post-independence.
- Military collaboration introduced French aircraft and helicopters into India’s fleet.
- Critical support from France in 1984 for nuclear fuel supply to Tarapur plant.
Post-Cold War Era (1991-Present):
- Formalization of Strategic Partnership in 1998.
- Focus on Defence, Space, and Civil Nuclear cooperation.
- France’s role in ISRO’s satellite programs and the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project.
- Key Sectors and Initiatives Related to the Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap:
Partnership for the Planet and Global Issues:
Environment:
- AFD’s €4 billion investment in sustainable urban development and waste management projects.
- Commitment to curb plastic pollution through international agreements.
Climate Change:
- Promotion of clean energy technologies and renewable energy projects.
- Co-founding the International Solar Alliance to promote solar energy deployment.
Biodiversity:
- Conservation efforts including projects like rhino conservation in Assam.
Partnership for People:
Student Mobility:
- Targeting 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030.
Diplomatic and Consular Network:
- Opening new consulates in Marseille and Hyderabad.
Culture and Research:
- Collaboration on establishing a new National Museum in New Delhi.
- Increased funding for the Indo-French Centre for Advanced Research.
Partnership for Security and Sovereignty:
Indo-Pacific:
- Strategic cooperation in maritime security and joint military exercises (Shakti, Varuna, Garuda).
Defence:
- Acquisition of Rafale aircraft and construction of Scorpène submarines.
- ISRO-CNRS collaboration in satellite launches.
Civil Nuclear Energy:
- Agreement on civil nuclear cooperation and involvement in Jaitapur project.
- Significance of Indo-France Relations:
Indo-Pacific Security:
- Countering Chinese assertiveness with France’s support.
Global Power Balance:
- Moderating influences of Russia in Europe and China in Asia.
Defence Cooperation and Future Collaboration:
- Horizon 2047 Roadmap emphasizing advanced technologies like AI and quantum computing.
Challenges Related to Indo-France Relations:
Economic Limitations:
- Stalled progress on India-EU BTIA impacts economic integration.
Trade and Intellectual Property Issues:
- Concerns over IP rights protection for French businesses in India.
Divergent Geopolitical Stances:
- Varied approaches to global issues such as Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Steps to Accelerate Indo-France Relations:
Economic Engagement:
- Expedite India-EU BTIA negotiations with French support.
- Explore interim bilateral economic partnership agreements.
Trade and Intellectual Property:
- Establish joint working groups for IP protection and technology transfer.
Managing Geopolitical Positions:
- Increase strategic dialogues and alignment on global issues.
Addressing Emerging Global Tensions:
- Expand frameworks like Quad to include France in specific areas.
Conclusion/Way Forward:
- As global dynamics evolve, the India-France partnership stands poised to shape a balanced international order. By addressing existing challenges through enhanced economic, geopolitical, and strategic collaborations, India and France can bolster mutual interests and contribute significantly to global peace and prosperity.
