France’s agreement with India to deepen arms cooperation

According to the report of the international group Tasnim news agency quoting “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung” newspaper, with French President Emmanuel Macron as the guest of honor at the Republic Day military parade in New Delhi, France and India emphasized their close cooperation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked Macron to do so after US President Joe Biden declined the invitation due to a “tight political schedule”. The cancellation led to speculation that it could be related to an investigation in the United States into an alleged assassination plot against an Indian-origin Sikh activist allegedly by an employee of the Indian government.

Macron’s immediate reception in India was seen as a sign of friendship. Indian Foreign Minister Vinay Kwatra told reporters on Friday that Macron and Modi agreed on closer cooperation in defense equipment, space, science and technology and health.

For the French president, in this trip, the issue of “strategic partnership” with India It was mentioned. This is Macron’s third visit to India. Last year, Modi was the guest of honor at the traditional July 14 military parade in Paris.

This “strategic partnership” mainly involves arms deals. Last July, India bought 26 fighter jets. approved the Rafale for the new aircraft carrier Vikrant from this country. France was competing with the United States, which had offered Boeing Super Hornets to India.

This contract 5.5 billion euros have been closed, but final agreements are still pending next steps. France has become very cautious since the collapse of the submarine deal with Australia. That’s why Macron came to India to maintain good relations. France has already bought six Skorbon submarines. has sold to India. The heads of major defense companies also traveled to this country with Macron’s delegation.

End message/