(Image source from: Twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron)
After discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, India and France have formed a solid plan to collaborate on the development of key military equipment. They have also established a program to enhance their understanding of space situations. In addition, Tata group and Airbus have agreed to jointly manufacture H125 helicopters, while Safran, a French company, has agreed to completely transfer technology to India for the design, development, and certification of fighter jet engines.
During Macron's recent two-day visit to India, the two countries also discussed the proposal to acquire 26 Rafale naval variant fighter aircraft and construct three additional submarines under the P75 program. Macron has expressed his desire to increase cultural exchanges by aiming to have 30,000 Indian students studying in France by 2030. He acknowledges that it is an ambitious target, but he is determined to achieve it.
Regarding supply chains, the Indian ambassador to France, Jawed Ashraf, mentioned in a briefing that India is not only interested in technology transfer for fighter jet engine manufacturing, but also in collaborating with the French side in the design and metallurgical aspects of production. He noted that ongoing discussions are taking place between India's DRDO and Safran. The ambassador emphasized that these topics are consistently addressed in talks between Macron and Modi, as India is currently exploring specifications for its future fighter jet requirements.
The foreign secretary informed the media that, during the visit of the French President, the two countries reached agreements on various areas of cooperation. These include a defense space partnership, a memorandum of understanding for satellite launches, collaborations in science and technology, healthcare cooperation, public administration and reforms, as well as agreements on people-to-people exchanges. Specifically, a young professionals scheme for individuals aged 18 to 35 and a five-year validity for Schengen visas for Indian students with Master's degrees from French universities were agreed upon. Additionally, the establishment of a solar academy in Senegal, within the framework of the International Solar Alliance, was also discussed.
The foreign secretary emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration in renewable energy and environmental efforts, as well as bolstering trade, commerce, and investment partnerships. Additionally, the leaders engaged in a conversation regarding various regional and global matters such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the worrisome situation in the Red Sea, which poses a risk to maritime traffic.
