France eager to lay foundation of defence-oriented industry with India

Panaji: France is committed to providing the best technology to the Indian defence forces without hindrance. France will not only support ‘Make in India’, but is also keen to develop and manufacture defence equipment and weapons with India jointly. French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain has said that France can assist India in developing the industrial background required for defence-related industries in India.

Moreover, the ‘Varun’ war exercise between Indian and French navies concluded in Goa. The French aircraft carrier ‘Charles de Gaulle’ participated in this exercise. While interacting with the media from this warship, the ambassador of France presented his country’s position towards India. France can better understand the concept of a self-reliant India. Because France, a country like India, which has given its independence the highest priority, has passed through the condition India has been through. The French ambassador claimed that France is keen to assist India as a partner in setting up defence-related industries.

Furthermore, India is making efforts to diversify its defence-related supply chain. France would be the best option for this. India and France have strong bilateral relations and both countries prioritise their sovereignty. It is an important link connecting the two countries. Also, both countries have strong mutual trust. Therefore, Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain explained that France is interested in jointly developing defence equipment and weapons with India.

Meanwhile, India has purchased Rafale fighter jets from France and India is also preparing to provide new contracts for these planes to France in the future. Along with this, India had taken cooperation from France for the Scorpine class submarines of its navy. On the other hand, France claimed that India is the most important country to secure its interests in the Indo-Pacific region. France is taking the initiative to develop a defence partnership with India to secure its islands in the Indian Ocean region and the French citizens living on these islands. France had taken a strong stand against the possible threat to the Indo-Pacific region from China. Also, French leaders and diplomatic officials are constantly saying that they look at India as a country that provides complete security in this area.