The 4th India-France Defense Dialogue was recently held in India—the latest iteration of a regular event designed to strengthen the bonds between the two nations. The focus of this year’s dialogue centered around key areas such as defense industrial cooperation, military-to-military partnership, and enhanced cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
Defense Industrial Cooperation
Both countries discussed how to further their defense industrial cooperation with a special emphasis on ‘Make in India’. The discussions encompassed a variety of bilateral, regional, and defense industry-related topics.
Military-to-Military Cooperation
Another point of focus during the dialogue was the ongoing military-to-military cooperation. Both nations acknowledged the alignment of their views on numerous strategic and defense issues. They shared a commitment to enhance their cooperation on bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indian Ocean Region
Conversations also extended to the maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). France reiterated its engagement in the Indo-Pacific and recognized India’s central role in its regional strategy. As the current chair of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), France works closely with India in these forums.
India-France Strategic Relations: A Background
France was one of the first countries to sign a strategic partnership with India after the end of the Cold War in January 1998. It notably supported India’s decision to test nuclear weapons in 1998. The armed forces of both countries regularly conduct joint exercises that have strengthened their defense cooperation. In recent years, India has secured multiple defense assets from France, including Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines.
Reciprocal Logistics Support Agreement
The two countries have signed an agreement to provide mutual logistics support. This enhances their ability to replenish fuel, rations, spares, and maintain facilities for warships, military aircraft, and troops during routine port calls and during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
France’s Role in the Indian Ocean
Protecting its colonial territorial possessions like the Reunion Island is a central factor influencing France’s interest in the Indian Ocean Region. In 2020, France became the 23rd member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)—the first country without mainland territory on the Indian Ocean to join the association.
Counter Terrorism Efforts
France has supported India’s proposal for a global conference on terrorism and both nations back the “No Money for Terror” initiative aimed at fighting terrorist financing. France also continues to steadfastly back India on the issue of Kashmir, with relations with Pakistan deteriorating recently and China under suspicion.
Economic and Trade Relations
The India-France Administrative Economic and Trade Committee (AETC) works to promote bilateral trade and investment while addressing market access issues. France is the 11th largest foreign investor in India and aeronautics constitute half of France’s total exports to India.
Joint Efforts on Global Issues
India and France have joined hands to address global issues such as climate change, biodiversity, renewable energy, terrorism, cybersecurity, and digital technology. They are making shared efforts to curb climate change and foster the growth of the International Solar Alliance.
Space Cooperation
France has agreed to cooperate with India in space exploration, specifically by being part of India’s upcoming Venus mission. The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Venus instrument, VIRAL (Venus Infrared Atmospheric Gases Linker), is being co-developed by Russian and French agencies.
Way Forward
Given that France values independent foreign policy, it is seen as a natural partner for India in forming new alliances in uncertain times. France’s active engagement opens avenues for deeper involvement with Europe on global issues—especially crucial after Brexit. New partnerships with France, Germany, Japan, and other like-minded countries are expected to significantly boost India’s influence on the world stage.
Last Modified: February 18, 2024