A wide array of areas including defense, civil nuclear energy, space, cyber and digital, AI, Science and Tech, UNSC reforms, and multilateral cooperation were discussed between India and France on Tuesday.
At the Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) on March 5, 2024, in New Delhi, chaired by Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra and Secretary-General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Anne-Marie Descôtes, the two reviewed the progress outlined in the India France Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing people-to-people exchanges and cultural ties, emphasizing the importance of fostering deeper understanding between the two nations.
Moreover, the dialogue extended to global and regional affairs, with discussions on Indo-Pacific dynamics, climate action, energy transition, and health. Both nations reiterated their commitment to addressing key challenges, including the situation in Gaza, the Red Sea, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Preceding the FOC, the 2nd meeting of the Strategic Space Dialogue and the India-France ‘Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Dialogue’ were held on March 4, 2024. These dialogues further underscored the depth of cooperation between India and France in various strategic domains.
The FOC serves as a vital bilateral mechanism, providing coherence to existing exchanges between India and France. It offers a platform for both nations to align their priorities and collaborate on shared challenges effectively.
In addition to the official engagements, Ms Descôtes paid a courtesy call on External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, further cementing the diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Overall, the India-France Foreign Office Consultations signify a significant step towards strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. By reaffirming their commitment to shared goals and priorities, India and France pave the way for a brighter future of collaboration and mutual prosperity.