Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India: a strengthened strategic partnership
French President Emmanuel Macron recently began a two-day visit to India, marking a new chapter in the strategic partnership between Paris and New Delhi. As guest of honor of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Indian Constitution Day, Macron will be accompanied by several French ministers and a delegation of entrepreneurs.
The objective of this visit is to consolidate and deepen diplomatic and economic relations between France and India, as well as to strengthen links between the civil societies of the two countries. Macron will be the fourth French president to receive this honor, after the presidents of Egypt, Brazil and South Africa.
During his visit, Macron will have the opportunity to meet artists and speak with young Indians, in emblematic places such as Amber Fort. He will also participate in a military parade in New Delhi, accompanied by French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, symbolizing cooperation between the two countries in the space field.
In addition to cultural and symbolic aspects, the discussions between Macron and Modi will also focus on security and military industry issues. France hopes to strengthen its cooperation in this area, in particular by selling Rafale fighter jets to India and initiating negotiations for the sale of EPR nuclear reactors.
India, for its part, is an important strategic partner for France due to its position as the world’s leading demographic power and fifth economic power. However, NGOs are raising concerns about human rights in India, prompting some to call on Macron to raise these issues in his talks with Modi.
In conclusion, Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India demonstrates the strengthening of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Beyond the diplomatic and economic aspects, this visit offers an opportunity to discuss security issues and strengthen cooperation in the military industry. However, it is important that human rights issues are not neglected in these discussions.