MODI –MACRON TALKS WERE EXPECTED TO -BOLSTERING COOPERATION IN WIDE AREAS SPANNING DEFENCE, TRADE, STUDENT MOBILITY FOR CONSOLIDATING INDO-FRENCH TIES

Hello, Everyone!

As we know French President and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi were about to have extensive talks on key aspects of consolidating bilateral relationships among the two countries. Without further ado let’s have a deeper insight of what all talks were expected to be held among the two leading dignitaries.

Bolstering cooperation in broader aspects spanning over defense and security, trade, climate change, clean energy and migration of students as well as professionals were about to be crosshairs of official talks between Modi and Macron. Also, the two were expected to ponder over widening maritime cooperation.

The prime delegates from both countries were eyeing finalizing two major defense deals for India’s ownership of 26 Rafale-M (marine version) fighter jets and three French-designed Scorpene submarines.

Last year on 14 July 2023-Bastille Day {National Day of France}, India and France conceded to firm a roadmap to build a pathway for the defence industrial partnership till 2047 to celebrate a hundred years of India’s independence and Indo-France bilateral diplomatic relationship to recognize 25th anniversary of Indo-French relationship.

The strategic partnership between India and France was embarked on in 1998 which is symbolic of their converging views spanning over a wide range of international matters on the sidelines of emerging friendly ties.

Twenty-five years after the launch of their strategic partnership, India and France have launched new common objectives for the subsequent twenty-five years.

According to a French Readout, the reciprocate invitation is remarkable and acts as a testament of immense trust and steady friendship which acts as a cornerstone of Indo-French ties. The official talks between President Macron and Prime Minister Modi will be in congruence and were envisioned to progress both countries’ cooperation and clinching on new initiatives defined under the three pillars of Roadmap to 2047 namely:-

1.    Partnership for security and sovereignty

2.    Partnership for the planet

3.    Partnership for the people

The French readout also mentioned strengthening of trust-based cooperation between India and France which to attain reinforcement of strategic autonomy that is exemplified by co-development and co-production of advanced defense technologies. The readout said that both countries looking forward to working together in opening a gateway for international peace and security, primarily focusing on the Indo-Pacific region under the Indo-Pacific Roadmap under the Joint Strategic Vision of India-France cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region adopted in 2018.

The joint cooperation between the two countries is focused to combat the problems faced by our planet including climate change, terrestrial and marine biodiversity loss, abolishment of poverty, and technological changes.

Regarding the Mobility of students and professionals President Macron’s visit was targeted to lay special focus on generating new opportunities for Indian students, artists, investors as well as tourists. France is about to welcome 30,000 Indian students as stated by President Macron, also an ambitious plan has been set forth by him.

Under the banner of the “Make it Iconic” nation branding campaign, business ties and cross investments were to be promoted.

REFERENCES:-

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/modi-macron-talks-defence-trade-students-mobility-9126143/

https://www.mea.gov.in/