Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to France, French diplomatic sources emphasized the “special relationship” and deep-rooted trust between New Delhi and Paris, positioning India as a “top priority” partner on the global stage.
Highlighting the deep strategic alignment, diplomatic sources confirmed on Thursday that the upcoming G7 summit will include a meeting dedicated to West Asia.
Speaking about concerns about regional fluctuations, the sources stressed the importance of maritime security, saying: “Emphasizing freedom of navigation, we are not part of the war, but it has an impact on all of us.”
Regarding the invitation extended to India to attend the G7 summit, French diplomatic sources indicated that “India represents a top priority for us; we have a special relationship. India has joined all G7 tracks.”
Regarding the bilateral partnership, the sources described a relationship characterized by high levels of mutual trust. “We have reached a level of trust where it is easy for us to talk about anything,” the sources said, adding that France is closely following India’s leadership, including its role as BRICS chair and the legacy of its successful G20 presidency.
The main focus of the upcoming visit will be the development of defense and technological cooperation. Rejecting the idea of traditional transactional dynamics, French sources emphasized that “this relationship is not a relationship between customer and customer. It is an equal relationship.”
Central to this partnership is the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which will be integrated into future defense agreements. Regarding the Rafale deal, the sources confirmed that the framework differs from previous agreements, with a firm commitment to the integration of local weapons systems.
Civil nuclear cooperation is also set to be a major topic of discussion. French officials expressed optimism about the impact of recent legislative reforms in India, noting that their utility companies are in active discussions with major Indian players. The sources said: “We are at the beginning of a new phase,” expressing their confidence that a clearer picture of this cooperation will emerge by the end of the year.
Moreover, sources indicated that several major innovation-related announcements are expected to be made during Prime Minister Modi’s visit.
Regarding the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), sources emphasized that the concept remains relevant despite the ongoing regional complexities. “The idea of IMEC will remain relevant, but we have to deal with the current situation in the Middle East. We still have discussions,” the sources said.
