India-France Relations: Strengthening Strategic Partnership + Banking_SBI_PO?.ToString()?? Banking_SBI_PO?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to France has marked a significant milestone in India-France relations. Both nations have strengthened their strategic partnership across defense, nuclear energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and Indo-Pacific cooperation. Groundbreaking agreements underscore the deepening trust and shared vision between the two countries.
Key Takeaways
Nuclear Energy Collaboration:
India and France agreed to jointly develop Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) to enhance nuclear energy as a key component of their low-carbon energy transition.
The Jaitapur nuclear power plant project received renewed focus, with commitments to advancing peaceful nuclear energy uses.
Defense Cooperation:
A Defense Industrial Roadmap was unveiled, focusing on co-design, co-development, and co-production of defense equipment.
Key projects include:
Integration of DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) into Scorpene submarines.
Collaboration on missile, helicopter, and jet engine technologies.
France welcomed India’s inclusion as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Partnership:
An India-France Roadmap on AI was launched, focusing on the development of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems.
Indo-Pacific Cooperation:
The India-France Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation aims to support climate and SDG-focused projects in third countries across the Indo-Pacific region.
Economic and Digital Ties:
France expanded the use of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for seamless transactions.
Ten Indian startups were included in France’s Startup Incubator Station F, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Do You Know?
France is India’s second-largest arms supplier, accounting for 33% of India’s defense imports. Key projects include the Rafale aircraft deal and the P-75 Scorpene submarine program.
The India-France Year of Innovation will be inaugurated in New Delhi in March 2026, showcasing their commitment to innovation.
Marseille, where Modi inaugurated the Indian Consulate, holds historical significance as a base for Indian troops during World War I and is closely linked to Indian revolutionary Veer Savarkar.
Challenges in India-France Relations
Bilateral Trade: Despite growing ties, bilateral trade stood at $15.8 billion in 2022, which remains below its potential compared to other partnerships.
Visa Restrictions: Increased visa restrictions pose challenges for Indian professionals and correspondents.
Nuclear Agreement Delays: Technical, financial, and civil nuclear liability issues continue to delay the Jaitapur nuclear power project.
Strategic Autonomy: India’s non-aligned foreign policy contrasts with France’s pragmatic alliances, creating challenges in aligning their Indo-Pacific strategies, especially in countering China’s assertiveness.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France has reinforced the strategic partnership between the two nations, with significant strides in defense, nuclear energy, AI, and Indo-Pacific cooperation. While challenges remain, the growing convergence between India and France reflects their shared commitment to addressing global challenges and fostering mutual growth. This partnership not only strengthens bilateral ties but also positions both nations as key players in shaping a multipolar world order.