India - France: PM Modi’s visit carried a Significant Geopolitical Context
STORIES, ANALYSES, EXPERT VIEWS
On his sixth visit to France as Prime Minister, Modi said that India and France could be a force for “global transformation”. This statement, writes The Hindu “carried significant geopolitical context for both him and his host, French President Emmanuel Macron. The visit took place just before Mr. Modi’s scheduled trip to Washington, where the Trump administration’s unpredictability has reshaped global dynamics.”
Discussions on defence, nuclear areas, IMEC
The two leaders discussions focused on strengthening the defence partnership, reviewing deals on missiles, helicopter and jet engines. India also offered Indian-made rocket launchers. Days after the Modi government announced amendments to India’s nuclear liability laws, both countries agreed to develop small modular reactors and advance the long-stalled civil nuclear deal. The leaders discussed global conflicts, including those in Ukraine and Gaza. They also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, an initiative in which both countries play a key role that is contingent on West Asian stability.
Broader strategic implications
Interestingly, “Mr. Macron referred to India and France as two great powers that are closely aligned, emphasising that while they seek stronger engagement with the U.S. and China, neither wishes to be dependent on any one power.”
Beyond bilateral ties, PM Modi’s visit, writes The Hindu “had broader strategic implications. The leaders addressed global challenges such as climate change, trade disruptions, and the evolving risks posed by AI. However, a key issue both sides remained discreet about was on how to navigate relations with Washington. While both leaders seek to maintain positive ties with Mr. Trump, they are wary of his unpredictable policies, including his approach to tariffs, economic measures, and his unilateral stance on global conflicts.”
Macron, in an interview after PM Modi’s departure, criticised U.S. policy on Gaza, Trump’s independent dealings with Russia and China, often made without consulting key allies in Europe or the Indo-Pacific. His disregard for the multilateral order, “could become a longer-term subject of discussion between Mr. Modi and Mr. Macron. In the months ahead, India and France will likely find greater alignment in their shared understanding of global challenges and their pursuit of collaborative solutions.”
