Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Visit to France
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France from February 10 to 12, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, was highly significant for several reasons. The visit aimed to strengthen India-France ties and address key global challenges.
AI Action Summit and Strategic Partnership
- The visit included co-chairing the AI Action Summit with President Macron.
- India and France reviewed the ‘Horizon 2047’ Roadmap, reinforcing their strategic partnership established in 1998.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Independence
- Global shifts, particularly the Trump factor, have influenced Europe's strategic calculations.
- The Russian invasion of Ukraine has pushed European nations to reassess their strategic autonomy, with Finland and Sweden joining NATO.
- French foreign policy prioritizes national identity and strategic independence, aligning with India's preference for a multipolar world.
Climate Change Cooperation
- Both countries are committed to addressing climate change.
- With the US exiting the Paris Agreement, France seeks closer collaboration with India on climate issues.
Defence and Connectivity
- France has been a key source of defence equipment for India, providing political leverage and enhancing defence preparedness.
- Historical trust stems from France's stance during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, avoiding sanctions against India.
- A Defence Industrial Roadmap has been agreed upon, focusing on indigenous production and defence modernization.
- The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a planned connectivity project, enhancing trade routes.
Nuclear Energy and Challenges
- France is a leader in civil nuclear energy, deriving 70% of its electricity from nuclear power.
- Nuclear projects in India face challenges like high costs and technical/legal issues, compounded by India’s 2010 liability act.
- Amendments to relevant acts may rejuvenate French interest in Indian nuclear projects, focusing on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs).
This visit emphasized the significance of Indo-French collaboration in strategic, economic, and environmental domains, reinforcing both nations' roles in global affairs. It also highlighted the potential for cooperation in advanced nuclear technologies and defense modernization.
