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Source: News on Air
Context:
French President Emmanuel Macron visited India to attend the India AI Impact Summit and launch the 2026 India–France Year of Innovation. During the visit, India and France elevated ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, a long-term framework guiding cooperation till 2047.
What is the Special Global Strategic Partnership?
A major diplomatic upgrade that expands the relationship into a comprehensive global alliance, focusing on:
1. Strategic Autonomy
- Strengthening independent decision-making and sovereignty of both nations.
2. Global Governance
- Cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, economic imbalances, and geopolitical stability.
3. Security & Innovation
- Co-development of advanced technologies (AI, space, nuclear).
- Building trusted and resilient supply chains.
Evolution of India–France Relations
- 1947: Early diplomatic relations after India’s independence.
- 1998: France became the first Western country to sign a Strategic Partnership with India and did not impose sanctions after nuclear tests.
- 2008: First country to sign a civil nuclear agreement with India after the NSG waiver.
- 2023: Adoption of Horizon 2047 Roadmap (25-year cooperation plan).
- High-level symbolism:
- Indian PM invited as Bastille Day Guest of Honour (2023).
- Macron attended India’s Republic Day (2024).
Key Agreements Under the New Partnership
Innovation & Technology
- Year of Innovation 2026: Joint initiatives in AI, healthcare, and sustainability.
- AI-driven health research collaboration (AIIMS–Paris Brain Institute).
Defence Cooperation
- Co-production of fighter jet engines (Safran–HAL).
- Procurement of Rafale Marine jets.
Nuclear Energy
- Joint development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors.
Indo-Pacific Cooperation
- Triangular development cooperation in third countries (health, digital public infrastructure).
Space Collaboration
- Expanded cooperation between ISRO and CNES:
- Human spaceflight
- Satellite launch systems
- Space situational awareness
Mobility & Education
- Visa-free transit for Indians through French airports (pilot).
- Target: 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030.
