Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending visit to Paris in February is expected to improve bilateral ties in defence, technology, and marine security. During the visit, two significant defence transactions worth more than $10 billion are likely to be completed. These include the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three more Scorpene-class submarines for the Indian Navy. The Rafale-M fighter jets will improve India’s naval air capabilities, while the submarines will greatly increase underwater combat strength. Both accords are awaiting approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).
India and France recently convened their 7th Maritime Cooperation Dialogue, which emphasised their common vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The discussions centred on maritime security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable ocean governance. Piracy, cybersecurity risks, and marine pollution were also addressed.
Prime Minister Modi will attend the AI Action Summit, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, where world leaders will debate AI governance, innovation, and societal implications. The summit highlights India’s rising significance in digital technology, as well as its collaboration with France in cutting-edge industries such as artificial intelligence and aerospace.
This visit marks a watershed moment in India-France ties, combining defence agreements, technical collaboration, and maritime endeavours to strengthen their strategic alliance.
