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A new phase in India-France ties

(Relevant for General Studies Paper | International Relations | Prelims/Mains)

A new phase in India–France ties

Recently, Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the India-France strategic partnership was the central focus of the Prime Minister’s two-day trip to France, which concluded with the signing of several agreements and a series of defense-related contracts.

This visit witnessed both nations unveiling an “Indo-Pacific Roadmap,” encompassing aspects like security, environmental concerns, and renewable energy. Additionally, a comprehensive “Horizon 2047” agenda was introduced, highlighting a more robust military-industrial partnership, collaborative efforts in digital technologies, the shift towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy, urban development, trade and investments, and people-to-people interactions.

While India’s relationships with each of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (P5) hold unique characteristics, the distinctive feature of the India-France connection lies in its geopolitics devoid of judgment. It wouldn’t be an overstatement to assert that among all the countries visited by the Prime Minister, particularly in the Western hemisphere, France stands out as the one sharing the most common ground with India.

India’s Diplomatic Ties with France

Foundations of the Relationship: India and France share deep-rooted cultural, trade, and economic ties. The India-France strategic partnership, established in 1998, has gained substantial momentum over time and has transformed into an even closer, multifaceted relationship spanning various areas of collaboration.

Both nations have adhered to three key principles in their relationship:

- Non-interference in each other’s internal matters.
- A strong commitment to strategic autonomy and non-alignment.

The refusal to involve the other in their respective coalitions and alliances. In numerous ways, this relationship has distinguished itself from other major partnerships India has cultivated worldwide.

France’s Approach to India’s Affairs: Indo-French relations are grounded in mutual respect for each other’s strategic autonomy. France has consistently refrained from commenting on India’s internal affairs or its foreign policy decisions. While France has taken a leading role in the Western response to Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, it has not joined other Western nations in publicly pressuring India to alter its stance. Even when India abstained from voting on resolutions at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), France refrained from expressing disappointment, considering its co-authorship of a UNSC resolution with Mexico (aimed at ensuring unhindered humanitarian access within the conflict zone). Even during India’s nuclear tests in Pokhran (Pokhran-II), French diplomats at the UNSC did not endorse the U.S.-led effort to impose sanctions on India. Furthermore, France supplied uranium to power the Tarapur reactors.
Defence Collaboration at the Heart: At the core of the Indo-French partnership lies defense collaboration. France has proven to be a more willing and generous partner in comparison to other Western nations. Starting from the Rafale deal to the recent acquisition of 26 units of the aircraft’s naval version, France has been open to providing India with some of its most advanced defense systems. France’s technology transfers have assisted India in building six Scorpene-class submarines, with another three in the process of procurement to bolster the Navy’s dwindling fleet.
Alignment on NATO+: France has publicly expressed its disapproval of plans for a NATO-plus partnership that would involve the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) establishing direct ties with Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and even India. India has also rejected this proposal, asserting that NATO is not a model that applies to India.
Strategic Collaborations: France has been accommodating regarding the “Quad-Plus” coalitions, initially proposed in 2020 (although these were dropped following the U.S.-France disagreement over the AUKUS agreement). France is the only country with which the Indian Navy has conducted joint patrols so far. Future plans may involve the use of French overseas territories in Reunion, New Caledonia, and French Polynesia, as well as India’s Andaman Islands, for port visits and joint reconnaissance activities between both navies on a bilateral basis. The recent India-France Roadmap on the Indo-Pacific also emphasizes that neither side seeks to draw the other into their respective regional military coalitions.

Challenges in relationship

Diplomatic relations between France and India, although generally favorable, are hampered by the absence of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which constrains the full utilization of trade potential. The sluggish progress, and in some cases, a lack of progress, on the India-EU Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) exacerbates this challenge. Despite a robust defense partnership, the collaboration on defense and security matters may face occasional influence from differing priorities and approaches. India’s regional focus and adherence to a “non-aligned” policy could potentially clash with France’s global interests. France has also expressed concerns regarding India’s insufficient protection of intellectual property rights, which has an impact on French businesses operating within India.

How can this relationship can be more strengthened

Leveraging Mutual Aspirations to Empower Each Other: Both nations’ shared commitment to upholding strategic autonomy within a complex geopolitical landscape has fostered a level of trust and a practical partnership. France possesses strengths in diplomatic, military, space, and nuclear domains, making it a valuable partner for India. India holds significant importance for France, particularly in trade and defense cooperation, especially in the face of challenges like Russian aggression or terrorism in Africa. Both countries can lend support to each other in shaping the global order and even in balancing relationships with other nations upon which one of them heavily relies.
Enhanced Collaboration in the Indo-Pacific: The Indo-Pacific concept has offered a valuable framework for fostering robust Franco-Indian relations. France, in contrast to its Quad partners, maintains a direct stake in Indian Ocean stability due to its overseas territories and military installations in the region. The Indo-Pacific dialogue between the two nations should facilitate the safeguarding of strategic interests and bolster bilateral cooperation.
Prospective Areas of Partnership with France: France assumes a pivotal role in India’s ambitious initiatives to expand domestic arms production, involving increased private and foreign investment. Conversations should encompass emerging avenues for collaboration, encompassing connectivity, climate change, cyber-security, and advancements in science and technology.

France and India, significant players, one within Europe and the other within Asia, share a comparable worldview. In essence, both nations pursue an autonomous foreign policy and exercise strategic independence, envisioning their ability to influence a multipolar world. Of greater significance, both these influential entities recognize that collaborating closely significantly enhances the likelihood of realizing this vision.

Reference The Hindu

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Strengthening India-France ties: A Look at the 25-Year Strategic Partnership | Sociology UPSC | Triumph IAS