INDO-FRENCH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

India's military capabilities have been strengthened, and the France-India Defense Partnership has backed its modernisation initiatives.

- Prof Nidhi Piplani Kapur & Joanna Pranika Joshua

Introduction

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Indo-French Strategic Partnership. Launched on January 26, 1998, during President Chirac's visit to India, it exemplifies the two nations' commitment to strengthening their strategic autonomy through concrete bilateral cooperation to ensure world peace and security. All forms of strategic bilateral collaboration are included in this alliance. The Indo-Pacific region has become an integral part of the alliance, built on tight collaboration in defense, civil nuclear energy, space, and security (cyber security, counter-terrorism, and intelligence). This strategic partnership has proved effective in combating China's geostrategic policies, climate change, maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, etc. However, there are still certain grey areas that both nations need to confront. This article delineates some obstacles and challenges faced by the Indo-French Strategic Partnership while simultaneously discussing a way forward.

Analysis of Certain Challenges

Although the Indo-French alliance has hit several important milestones, there is still room for greater collaboration and cooperation. Three critical facets of the partnership are discussed below.

1. Cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific Region