French President Macron to Tour Amer Fort and Participate in a Jaipur Roadshow with PM Modi.
The chief guest for the 75th Republic Day, French President Emmanuel Macron, is scheduled to arrive in Jaipur this afternoon. During his visit, India and France, as close allies, are set to unveil a Defence Industrial Roadmap and a groundbreaking agreement on Defence Space Cooperation.
President Macron is scheduled to arrive in Jaipur at approximately 1:30 pm, accompanied by a delegation of 44 members, featuring influential ministers like Stephane Sejourne in Foreign Affairs, Sebastien Lecomu in Defence, and the emerging figure in Culture, Rachida Dati. The distinguished visitor will then head to the historic Amer Fort for an exploration, followed by a road show joined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The route will take them through the iconic Hawa Mahal and the Old City of the former Rajputana.
Accompanied by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Prime Minister Modi is set to conduct bilateral discussions and host President Macron at the renowned Rambagh Palace, followed by a dinner. The Modi administration, along with the BJP State government, has warmly welcomed the dignitaries, orchestrating a grand reception marked by lavishness and ceremonial flair. The departure for Delhi is scheduled late Thursday evening.
The forthcoming discussions between the two leaders are anticipated to cover a broad spectrum, addressing topics such as the security landscape in the region, the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, religious radicalization, terrorism, and the dynamic situation in the Indo-Pacific. It has been reported that France is strategically positioning India as a pivotal reference point in its Indo-Pacific approach. This indicates that French policies in the region will be formulated with India in consideration, taking into account the expanding Chinese Navy.
Following these talks, a joint statement is expected to be issued either tomorrow or after the Republic Day parade. During this period, the two strong strategic partners are set to unveil a defense industrial roadmap aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. This initiative involves collaborative efforts between French companies and Indian partners to design, manufacture, and certify defense platforms within India. The roadmap also facilitates access for Indian supply chains to the French market. A significant outcome of this collaboration is the generation of employment opportunities for skilled youth in India.
While the Modi government has not officially disclosed details of the visit, it is understood that both parties will finalize a letter of intent regarding Defense Space Cooperation, aimed at addressing space-related challenges posed by emerging powers in Asia. India and France share a strong collaboration in civilian space activities.
Despite frequent meetings between PM Modi and President Macron over the past year, the partnership between India and France in defense holds a rich history with promising prospects. India has already taken steps to procure 26 Rafale-Maritime multi-role fighters for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. Additionally, with the assistance of Naval Group, Mazagon Dockyards Limited is set to produce three more advanced diesel-electric submarines. Considering India’s emphasis on deterrence, discussions are underway for the potential construction of at least two nuclear attack submarines in India, supported by French expertise. Both nations have also committed to manufacturing naval surface combatants at GRSE, Kolkata, for export to third countries, along with submarines at MDL, Mumbai. Furthermore, Safran, the French engine manufacturer, has partnered with HAL to produce Shakti engines for Indian multi-role helicopters. Together, they are working on the joint development of a 130 kilo-newton thrust engine with ADA for future fighter aircraft.
