Macron India:Emmanuel Macron has arrived in India amidst rising hopes that the final stages of a historic Rafale fighter jet deal between New Delhi and Paris are being reached. The $35 billion agreement for the supply of 114 Rafale fighter jets is set to become the biggest ever defense aviation purchase made by India, and it symbolizes the ever-strengthening defense partnership between India and France.
However, despite the rising hopes, it was revealed that the final stages of negotiations regarding the final price and other details may cause a delay in the signing of the agreement during the current visit of Emmanuel Macron to India.
Macron, who arrived in Mumbai, is set to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attend an international AI summit in New Delhi. The visit reflects the growing cooperation in defense, tech, clean energy, and trade. Modi was optimistic about the outcome of bilateral talks, which would help enhance cooperation in various fields and contribute to the progress of the world as a whole.
The deal will be the biggest single export contract ever won by French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation. It has been reported that a large number of these planes and parts could be manufactured in India, which is consistent with the desire of the New Delhi administration to increase domestic production of defense equipment and cut imports. Safran, an engine manufacturer, has also indicated its willingness to consider local production in this regard.
The timing of the agreement is also considered significant. Europe is trying to reinvigorate its defence sectors, and India is also working towards upgrading its air force fleet, which is currently operating below its desired strength. It is believed that the agreement, if finalized, would not only improve India’s military might but would also mark a shift towards a new era of partnerships in the global arena.
The visit of the French president, Emmanuel Macron, who is making his fourth visit to India since he took over as president, is also accompanied by top business leaders, which marks the economic and technological aspect of the increasing Indo-French ties.
