In a testament to the enduring Indo-French friendship, French President Emmanuel Macron has accepted Bharat’s invitation to be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations, marking the sixth time a French leader graces the occasion. This visit comes in the backdrop of the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two nations, emphasizing the depth and diversity of their relations.
Back in 1998, then French President Jacques Chirac spoke of a “partnership for the 21st century” with Bharat. Even during challenging times, such as Bharat’s Emergency period in 1976 and nuclear tests in 1998, the French exhibited pragmatism by supporting and strengthening ties with India when others hesitated.
The comprehensive roadmap between Bharat and France, established in July 2023, focuses on three pillars: Partnership for Security and Sovereignty, Partnership for the Planet, and Partnership for People. These pillars encompass various aspects of cooperation, ranging from defense and security to civil nuclear matters, space, and economic collaboration.
Pillars of Cooperation:
- Defense: Bharat and France share a robust defense partnership, highlighted by the procurement of Rafale jets. Joint defense exercises have evolved in scope and complexity over the years.
- Space: A longstanding collaboration of over 50 years between ISRO and the French Space Agency has made France a major supplier for Bharat space program.
- Civil Nuclear Cooperation: Progress on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project and agreements on Small Modular Reactors and Advanced Modular Reactors demonstrate ongoing cooperation in the nuclear sector.
- Economic: France is a significant investor in Bharat, with over 70 Bharatiya companies employing more than 8,000 people in France. The economic ties include diverse sectors such as aviation, machinery, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Digital: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) was launched from the Eiffel Tower in July 2023, enhancing secure transactions for Bharat visitors and NRIs. Collaborations between Indian and French entities have also led to the development of supercomputers.
- Education: Around 10,000 Indian students study in France, and agreements for mutual recognition of degrees have been signed. Schemes allowing Bharat students to stay in France post-graduation aim to strengthen educational ties.
- Community in France: The Bharat community in mainland France, including NRIs, is approximately 1,19,000, with roots in former French colonies and various Bharat states.
- Tourism: France and Bharat witness significant tourist exchanges, with French travelers to Bharat and Bharat visitors to France contributing to cultural and economic ties.
- Support on International Fora: France has consistently supported Bharat on international platforms, backing its claims for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council and accession to various international groups.
The current visit by President Macron provides an opportunity for leaders to discuss mutual interests, including global geopolitical situations and the enhancement of defense and security cooperation. Macron’s visit signifies the continued strengthening of the Indo-French partnership.
This detailed overview highlights the multifaceted nature of the Bharat-France relationship, emphasizing its historical context and the diverse areas of collaboration that have developed over the past 25 years.
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