India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership

India and France have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron. This partnership aims to bring stability and progress amid unpredictable global dynamics.

Key Outcomes and Areas of Cooperation

• Defence and Aerospace:
  • Expansion of defence cooperation, including Rafale jets and submarines.
  • Inauguration of the H125 light utility helicopter assembly line by Tata-Airbus in Karnataka.
  • First 'Made in India' H125 helicopter delivery expected in early 2027, available for export in South Asia.
• Technology and Innovation:
  • Launch of the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health and Digital Science and Technology.
  • Establishment of a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics.
• Strategic and Security:
  • Renewal of the agreement on defence cooperation and joint venture for Hammer missiles production.
  • Reciprocal officer deployment at military establishments.
  • Formation of a Joint Advanced Technology Development Group for critical technologies.
• Trade and Economic Cooperation:
  • Amending the Protocol on the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement.
  • Letter of Intent for cooperation in start-up ecosystems between T-Hub and Nord France.
• Science and Health:
  • Joint Declaration of Intent for cooperation in critical minerals and metals.
  • Memorandum of Understanding for scientific collaboration and on infectious diseases research.
  • Establishment of the Indo-French Centre for Metabolic Health Sciences.

Significance of the Partnership

The partnership is described as crucial, leveraging trust and vision to address global challenges. Macron emphasized that India is a trusted partner, committed to the rule of law and collaborative efforts against terrorism. This partnership aims to provide global stability and progress, reaching from the oceans to the mountains.

Future Initiatives

• Annual Foreign Ministers Dialogue for partnership implementation and Horizon 2047 Roadmap review.
• Launch of the India-France Year of Innovation, Technology, and Innovation Network.

This strategic partnership is seen as a milestone development that deepens ties with a focus on defence, technology, innovation, and global health.