India and France aim to bolster their relationship by enhancing cooperation in maritime security

India and France are strengthening ties in the defense sector, finalizing a defense industrial road map during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India. The agreement, initially discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France in July of the previous year, aims to facilitate collaboration in joint design and production projects in various domains such as air, space, maritime, and land warfare, as well as robotics and artificial intelligence technology.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra highlighted the potential of the road map for fostering partnerships between the Indian and French defense sectors.

French President Macron aims for 30,000 Indian students in French institutions by 2030

French President Macron, who served as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations, engaged in talks with Prime Minister Modi in Jaipur, covering bilateral ties as well as regional and global issues. Discussions included the Red Sea crisis and the conflict in Ukraine. Macron, who previously visited India in 2018 and 2023, announced a goal of having 30,000 Indian students in French institutions by 2030.

To achieve this, new pathways for learning French, the development of the Alliances Francaises network, the creation of international classes for non-French speakers, and simplifying the visa process for those who have studied in France were highlighted.

Additionally, the two nations agreed to sign a letter of intent to enhance defense space cooperation, focusing on "space situational awareness" to prevent space collisions and activities such as earth monitoring and remote sensing. New Space India Ltd. (NSIL) also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with France's Arianespace for satellite launches.

Airbus plans to collaborate with the Tata Group

Airbus Helicopters, based in France, has disclosed plans to collaborate with the Tata Group in establishing a final assembly line for helicopters in India, marking its second such facility in the country. The assembly line is intended for the production of Airbus H125 helicopters from its civil range, catering to both the Indian market and exports to neighboring countries.

Additionally, a mobility agreement for young professionals was confirmed, activating a five-year Schengen visa provision for Indian students completing their Masters in France.

Also read: India and France have approved a new strategy for cooperation within the defense sector

While the visit did not involve announcements on specific defense acquisitions, it underscored concerns about disruptions in the Red Sea affecting maritime activities, with a focus on enhancing maritime security cooperation.