In News:

India and France, bound by a deep-rooted strategic partnership since 1998, have expanded cooperation across defence, nuclear energy, space, trade, and culture. In a significant move reflecting shared values and mutual respect, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited by French President Emmanuel Macron to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris in 2024—marking a pivotal moment in global AI governance and Indo-French relations.

Enduring Strategic Relations

India-France relations are anchored in the principles of strategic autonomy and reciprocal respect. France has consistently stood by India in challenging times—refusing sanctions post-Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998 and maintaining diplomatic engagement during the Emergency in 1976. President Macron’s participation in India’s 2024 Republic Day celebrations underscores the warmth in bilateral ties.

Robust Defence and Technological Cooperation

Defence cooperation forms the backbone of the relationship. Key initiatives include:

• Rafale Fighter Jets: Procurement of 36 Rafales and discussions on 26 Rafale-M jets for the Indian Navy.
• P-75 Scorpene Submarines: Expansion plans include three additional submarines.
• Next-gen Jet Engine Development and a dedicated DRDO office in Paris (2023) to bolster technology collaboration. France’s unique support for Make in India and technology transfer sets it apart, coupled with training programs for Indian personnel.

Expanding Frontiers: AI and Innovation

The Paris AI Summit marked a strategic milestone, with India’s role highlighting its growing global influence in emerging technologies. India presented its flagship IndiaAI Mission—a ?10,371 crore initiative focused on “Making AI in India and Making AI for India,” promoting equitable AI access and innovation.

The Summit, following the UK (2023) and South Korea (2024) AI summits, focused on:

• Public Interest AI
• Future of Work
• Innovation & Culture
• Trust in AI
• Global AI Governance

India advocated responsible AI, inclusive governance, and greater representation of the Global South, emphasizing AI's role in sustainable development and reducing the global AI divide.

Multilateral Engagement and Global Cooperation

India co-chairs the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) for 2024, reinforcing its commitment to ethical and collaborative AI development. Through the Paris Summit, India contributed to the Leaders' Statement, participated in steering committees, and called for AI democratization aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Beyond AI: Economic and Cultural Synergies

Bilateral trade surpassed $15 billion in 2023–24, with Indian exports at $7.14 billion and imports at $7.97 billion. Key developments:

• India-France CEOs Forum: Focus on defence, renewable energy, pharma, and startups.
• India-France Innovation Year 2026 and inauguration of a new Indian consulate in Marseille.
• Triangular Development Cooperation Initiative: Joint projects in the Indo-Pacific focused on climate and SDG targets.
• Joint visit to the ITER fusion energy project, reflecting shared aspirations for clean energy.

Conclusion

The India-France partnership has matured into a multifaceted global alliance—from defence and climate action to AI leadership and sustainable development. The co-chairing of the AI Summit symbolizes India's rising stature in tech diplomacy and affirms the enduring strategic trust between two democratic powers. For UPSC aspirants, this partnership exemplifies strategic depth, technological collaboration, and global engagement driven by shared values and autonomy.