Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Paris in February 2025 is poised to enhance the strategic partnership between India and France. This visit will focus on defence cooperation, maritime security, and technological advancements. India aims to finalise two defence deals worth over $10 billion during this trip.
Key Defence Deals
The anticipated defence agreements include the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three additional Scorpene-class submarines. These acquisitions are intended to boost India’s naval capabilities. The Rafale-M jets are specifically designed for aircraft carriers, enhancing aerial power. The submarines will augment India’s underwater combat strength. Approval from India’s Cabinet Committee on Security is expected soon.
Maritime Security Initiatives
India and France have reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. The seventh Maritime Cooperation Dialogue was held prior to PM Modi’s visit. Discussions centred on ensuring freedom of navigation and addressing threats like piracy and maritime terrorism. Both nations aim to enhance cooperation on cybersecurity and marine pollution. They plan to strengthen mechanisms such as the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region.
Artificial Intelligence Summit
PM Modi will also attend the AI Action Summit in Paris. This summit will gather global leaders to discuss the implications of artificial intelligence on society and governance. Key themes include public interest AI, the future of work, and trust in AI. India’s growing role in AI and digital technology will be brought into light, reinforcing its influence in the global tech landscape.
Bilateral Consultations
Prior to the visit, foreign office consultations were held in Paris. These discussions, co-chaired by Indian and French officials, covered various global issues, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle East tensions. The meetings also focused on trade, cybersecurity, AI, and space cooperation. The Horizon 2047 Roadmap was introduced to guide future collaborations.
Environmental and Technological Cooperation
The partnership extends to environmental cooperation, with both nations committed to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ocean governance. They aim to preserve marine resources and address climate change through initiatives like the United Nations Ocean Conference. The collaboration in high-end technologies, particularly in AI and aerospace, is expected to flourish.
Looking Forward
As PM Modi prepares for his visit, the focus remains on enhancing multifaceted cooperation. The expected defence deals and advancements in AI and cybersecurity will strengthen India’s global defence capabilities. The partnership’s commitment to maritime security will ensure stability in the strategically important Indian Ocean Region.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the India-France defence deals in the context of regional security dynamics.
- Critically examine the role of artificial intelligence in global governance and its implications for developing nations.
- Explain the challenges faced in maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region and the strategies to address them.
- With suitable examples, discuss how international collaborations can enhance technological advancements in emerging economies.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of the India-France defence deals in the context of regional security dynamics.
- Strengthens India’s military capabilities against regional threats, particularly from China and Pakistan.
- Enhances interoperability between Indian and French armed forces, encouraging deeper strategic ties.
- Signals to other nations the commitment of India and France to a multipolar world order.
- Bolsters India’s position in the Indian Ocean Region, ensuring maritime security and freedom of navigation.
- Facilitates technology transfer and indigenous defense production, contributing to India’s self-reliance in defense.
2. Critically examine the role of artificial intelligence in global governance and its implications for developing nations.
- AI can enhance decision-making processes, improving governance efficiency and transparency in developing nations.
- Potential risks include exacerbating inequalities, as access to AI technologies may be limited for poorer nations.
- AI governance frameworks are needed to ensure ethical use and address privacy concerns, particularly in surveillance.
- Collaboration among nations is essential to share knowledge and resources, ensuring equitable AI benefits.
- Developing nations can leverage AI for sustainable development goals, improving healthcare, agriculture, and education.
3. Explain the challenges faced in maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region and the strategies to address them.
- Challenges include piracy, maritime terrorism, illegal fishing, and geopolitical tensions among major powers.
- Increased naval presence and joint exercises among regional partners can enhance deterrence and response capabilities.
- Strengthening regional cooperation frameworks like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) promotes collective action.
- Investment in maritime domain awareness technologies can improve surveillance and response to threats.
- Addressing environmental issues and sustainable practices can reduce conflicts over marine resources.
4. With suitable examples, discuss how international collaborations can enhance technological advancements in emerging economies.
- Collaborations like the India-US partnership in space technology have led to advancements in satellite technology and applications.
- Joint research initiatives, such as the EU’s Horizon 2020, have encourageed innovation in renewable energy technologies.
- Public-private partnerships in sectors like AI can drive technological growth and skill development in emerging markets.
- International collaborations in health, such as vaccine development during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrate rapid technological advancements.
- Access to global markets through trade agreements can stimulate investment in technology sectors in emerging economies.
