PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron urged for an early conclusion of the Defence Industrial Roadmap, which is now under consideration, to facilitate design and manufacturing of advanced defence technologies and expand cooperation in not only India but also other Indo-Pacific countries. The two leaders met over lunch shortly after the G20 summit concluded.
One of India's most reliable defence partners, France regards itself as a pioneer in the technology transfer to India. Additionally, it wants to work with India to jointly develop the newest defence technology. In the Indo-Pacific, where France is a resident power, the two nations view one another as essential allies.
According to a joint statement, Modi thanked Macron for France’s continued support to India’s G20 presidency, which had “advanced inclusiveness, unity and cohesion’’ in international efforts to address global challenges. Modi in July this year became only the second Indian PM to participate in the Bastille Day celebrations as chief guest.
Later, Macron acknowledged his appreciation for India's efforts to help the G20 find an agreement on the Ukraine crisis and prevent the conflict from taking attention away from issues facing the Global South. He advised against the G20 becoming mired in political debates.
The two leaders stressed that the India-France relationship is based on sovereignty and strategic autonomy, a commitment to international law and principles enshrined in the UN Charter, an abiding faith in multilateralism and “a mutual pursuit of a stable multi-polar world’’. Both leaders emphasised the need to expand their collaboration to address regional and global challenges.
They also discussed partnering in the Indo-Pacific region and Africa in infrastructure, connectivity, energy, biodiversity, sustainability and industrial projects.