Context:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to France has deepened India-France relations across various sectors, including defense, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Issues discussed during the visit:

1.   Nuclear Energy Cooperation: India and France have agreed to collaborate on nuclear energy projects, particularly on developing modern nuclear reactors.

·        A major focus was on the Jaitapur nuclear power plant project and the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are seen as an innovative future solution for civilian nuclear energy.

2.   Defense Cooperation: Defense collaboration remains a central theme, with discussions surrounding the procurement of submarines, missile systems, aircraft, and helicopter engines.

·        The joint statement highlighted India’s invitation for the French Army to explore acquiring India's Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system, marking a milestone in defense relations.

·        France has been included as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program, emphasizing strengthened cooperation in defense equipment programs.

3.   Artificial Intelligence (AI): Modi and Macron launched an "India-France Roadmap on Artificial Intelligence" aimed at fostering the safe and ethical development of AI, reflecting their shared philosophical approach to AI’s role in societal development. The roadmap underscores cooperation in AI that is secure, open, and trustworthy.

4.   Collaboration in Third Countries: The two leaders also discussed their cooperation in third countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

·        They inaugurated the “India-France Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation,” aimed at supporting climate and SDG-focused projects in third countries. This aligns with both nations' broader strategic interests in the region.

5.   Economic and People-to-People Ties: The visit also focused on strengthening economic ties through initiatives such as supporting Indian startups at France's Station F incubator and expanding India's real-time payment system, UPI, to France.

·        Both nations also launched the "India-France Year of Innovation," which will be celebrated starting in March 2026.

India-France Relations: 

• India and France have a long-standing relationship, underpinned by mutual respect and shared values. The diplomatic ties between the two nations date back to 1947, when India became an independent nation, and these relations were formally upgraded to a strategic partnership in 1998.
• Over the years, the partnership has evolved and deepened, encompassing a wide range of sectors such as defense, trade, nuclear energy, climate change, and cultural exchanges.
• Both countries are united by their commitment to the principles of the United Nations, a strong belief in international law, and the promotion of democracy, human rights, and peace.

Conclusion:

The Modi-France visit marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral ties across key areas such as defense, nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, and economic cooperation. The strategic alignment between India and France on defense technologies, nuclear energy, and technological innovation reflects a deeper, more collaborative partnership. Moreover, the inclusion of India in international defense and technological programs further cements the growing global role of both nations.