India-France to start new undertakings to increase defence cooperation; assurance in joint meeting of the defence forces

Paris: – While indications of changing global equations are being received given the Russia-Ukraine war, India and France have announced the strengthening of defence ties. During the meeting held in Paris, it was agreed between the officials from the defence forces of both the countries to start new undertakings to increase the defence cooperation. Earlier in February, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar had met the French Defence Minister and had held talks on the subject. Against this background, this meeting of the officials from the defence forces is considered important.

There is the background of hegemonic Chinese activities for this defence cooperation between India and France. Although France is a European country, it has its islands in the Indo-pacific region. There are French citizens residing on these islands. France attaches importance to the security of these citizens and its national interests in this sector. Therefore, France has taken the initiative to cooperate with India, one of the leading countries in the sector. Last year, in September, there were exhaustive discussions regarding the bilateral cooperation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Moreover, India has signed an agreement to supply Rafale fighter jets with France and has indicated purchasing weapons for the navy and the army from France. At the same time, both the countries are trying to increase defence cooperation through the medium of joint naval exercises and other activities. Taking cognisance of this matter, the officials from both countries discussed new defence enterprises. The meeting was held in a friendly environment. Indian defence ministry informed that there was a dialogue for strengthening the defence cooperation during the session.

The United States had diverted the submarine contract awarded to France by Australia using pressure tactics. Therefore, the relations between the United States and France have been strained. At the same time, the United States is unhappy that France is not willing to go against Russia. The United States is issuing warnings to India for the same reasons. This further increases the significance of India-France defence cooperation.