India, France Expand Bilateral Partnership Ahead of Modi's Visit to Paris
New Delhi, February 2: In a significant move towards strengthening bilateral ties, India and France have agreed to expand their partnership in high-end technologies, including artificial intelligence, space, cyber security, and nuclear energy, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Paris on February 10-11.
During the India-France Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs' Secretary-General Anne-Marie Descôtes, both sides conducted a comprehensive review of progress under the India-France 'Horizon 2047 Roadmap', which aims to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as defence, civil nuclear energy, space exploration, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.
The consultations also covered institutional dialogue mechanisms, initiatives to enhance people-to-people exchanges, and cultural ties. Climate change, cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, and joint development projects in third countries were also discussed during the talks.
During separate meetings, Misri called on French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot and Diplomatic Adviser to the President of the French Republic Emmanuel Bonne. A meeting of the India-France Special Task Force on Civil Nuclear Energy was also held.
Additionally, both countries agreed to develop a joint assessment of threats related to maritime security in the Indian Ocean region, including countering piracy, armed robbery, maritime terrorism, contraband smuggling, and illegal fishing. This was decided during the 7th India-France Maritime Cooperation Dialogue held in New Delhi on January 14.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced that both sides would "explore opportunities for coordinated surveillance deployed to counter threats to maritime security in the region". With France's major presence in the Indian Ocean, this development is seen as a significant boost to bilateral ties.
The two countries have been working towards strengthening their partnership in various areas, including defence, strategic trade, and culture. This latest agreement reflects India's commitment to multilateral cooperation and its expansion of partnerships with like-minded nations.