National Security Advisor Ajit Doval recently concluded a pivotal visit to France, engaging in a series of high-level meetings that underscored India's commitment to global peace and strategic partnerships. During his visit, Doval met with several key French officials, including French President Emmanuel Macron, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, and French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu.
Discussions on Global Conflicts
One of the primary focuses of Doval's meetings was the ongoing conflicts in Europe and West Asia. He shared perspectives on these conflicts with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, emphasizing India's stance on the need for restraint and the prevention of wider regional escalation. This discussion was particularly timely given the recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israeli military actions in Lebanon.
Doval also briefed President Macron on India's efforts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine. India has been actively engaging with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives in this regard were appreciated by President Macron, who acknowledged India's potential role in ending the war.
Defence Cooperation and Procurement
A significant aspect of Doval's visit was the discussion on defence cooperation between India and France. He held extensive talks with French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu and Emmanuel Chiva, Director General of the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA), focusing on the procurement of Rafale-M fighter jets and Scorpene submarines for the Indian Navy. The negotiations for 26 Rafale-M fighters have seen a significant reduction in cost, with Dassault Aviation agreeing to a revised bid and the integration of indigenous weapons on the jets.
Additionally, the French Naval Group and Indian Mazagon Dockyards Limited are collaborating on the construction of three new Kalvari class submarines, which will be more advanced than their predecessors. These defence collaborations highlight the deepening bilateral defence relations between India and France.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Collaborations
Doval led the Strategic Dialogue in Paris with Emmanuel Bonne, the Diplomatic Advisor to President Macron. This dialogue reinforced the India-France strategic partnership, emphasizing trust, comfort, and high ambitions in areas ranging from the Indo-Pacific to cyber and space cooperation. The discussions also touched upon opportunities for Indian-French startups and tech innovations in future defence technologies.
The visit underscored India's commitment to the India-France Horizon 2047 roadmap, with Doval conveying Prime Minister Modi's greetings to President Macron and reiterating the commitment to implement this roadmap. This roadmap is crucial for advancing peace, addressing global challenges, and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
In summary, NSA Ajit Doval's visit to France was marked by significant discussions on global conflicts, defence cooperation, and the strengthening of strategic partnerships. These engagements reflect India's proactive role in international diplomacy and its commitment to peace and cooperation.
