PM Modi in France: Strategic power, defence ties, and global influence - Why France matters for India

French President Emmanuel Macron and PM Narendra Modi at the Elysee Palace as part of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris. (Courtesy: Reuters photo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France highlights the strong and long-standing India-France partnership, which has played a key role in boosting India's defence strength, space exploration, nuclear energy goals, and Indo-Pacific strategy. As India looks to expand its global influence, France remains a trusted ally, helping India grow in key sectors that enhance its strategic independence and global presence.

Defence and security cooperation

France has emerged as a key defence partner for India, providing advanced military technology and fostering long-term strategic collaboration. The Rafale fighter jet deal, the Scorpene submarine project, and ongoing discussions on next-generation fighter jet engines highlight the deepening military ties between the two nations. Joint defence exercises such as VARUNA (naval), GARUDA (air force), and SHAKTI (army) have further strengthened operational coordination, ensuring that both countries remain prepared for evolving security challenges.

Beyond conventional defence, the Letter of Intent on Defence Space Cooperation, signed between India and France, marks a significant step toward joint collaboration in space-based security operations, expanding India's reach in modern warfare and surveillance technologies.

Indo-Pacific strategy and maritime security

With France holding territories in the Indian Ocean, including Réunion Island, it is a resident power in the Indo-Pacific, making it a critical ally for India's maritime security and strategic interests. As both nations emphasize a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, their collaboration in joint naval deployments and maritime domain awareness has become increasingly crucial.

The growing trilateral cooperation between India, France, and Australia, as well as between India, France, and the UAE, further strengthens India’s regional influence and maritime defence strategies. With an assertive China expanding its naval footprint, India’s engagement with France in the Indo-Pacific reinforces its position as a key player in regional security.

Civil nuclear cooperation and clean energy

France has been a steadfast partner in India's civil nuclear energy program, particularly through the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project, the world’s largest civilian nuclear project. Both countries are also exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) as part of their commitment to clean and sustainable energy solutions.

By collaborating with France, India is expanding its nuclear energy capacity, ensuring greater energy security and meeting its climate commitments. This partnership enhances India’s technological expertise in the nuclear sector, helping it move towards self-reliance in advanced nuclear energy systems.

Space and technology cooperation

India and France share a 60-year-long space partnership, one of the strongest in the world. The TRISHNA satellite mission, collaborations in human spaceflight, and joint initiatives in maritime domain awareness are paving the way for further cooperation in space research and exploration. France continues to provide critical technological support for ISRO’s missions, reinforcing India’s ambitions in space innovation and satellite development.

Beyond space, the two nations are deepening their collaboration in AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and sustainable urban development. The establishment of French R&D centers in India and increased French investment in digital and deep-tech sectors further align with India's goal of becoming a global hub for emerging technologies.

Economic and trade relations

France is India's fifth-largest trading partner in the European Union, with bilateral trade surpassing $15 billion. The economic relationship is evolving beyond traditional sectors, with renewable energy, digital technology, and infrastructure development becoming major areas of collaboration. French companies have heavily invested in sustainable energy projects in India, contributing to the country’s shift towards green energy solutions.

The integration of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in France, starting with the Eiffel Tower, marks a significant milestone in digital cooperation. This move strengthens India’s fintech leadership, making cross-border transactions more seamless and reinforcing India’s role in shaping global digital financial ecosystems.

Strategic implications of Modi's visit

PM Modi's visit to France isn't just about diplomacy—it's a strategic move to strengthen India's position as a global power in defence, technology, and the economy. India and France share a commitment to working together on global issues, and a focus on strategic independence, making their partnership key in shaping international policies and protecting mutual interests.

With major geopolitical shifts happening around the world, this alliance gives India a stronger voice in global affairs, boosts its defence capabilities, and helps it play a bigger role in security and economic leadership.