National Security Adviser Ajit Doval briefed French President Emmanuel Macron on India’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. According to sources in Paris and New Delhi, Macron believes India can play a constructive role in ending the war, given Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rapport with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
During his visit, Doval also engaged in discussions with Macron’s diplomatic adviser Emmanuel Bonne and met with French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. Their conversations covered significant geopolitical issues, including the Ukraine war and the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The French government is keen to support India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative by offering to manufacture Rafale fighter jets and Safran engines in India, including a full transfer of technology. They are also interested in collaborating with India on projects related to nuclear submarines, cybersecurity, and military satellites.
Notably, prior to Doval’s visit, the Indian Navy concluded negotiations for the acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighters for the INS Vikrant, with the French manufacturer reducing the deal cost by nearly 500 million euros. The final agreement is anticipated to be signed by the end of the year, pending approval from India’s Cabinet Committee on Security.
Additionally, the French Naval Group is collaborating with Mazagon Dockyards Limited in India to construct three advanced Kalvari-class submarines, which will feature enhanced capabilities compared to the six earlier versions ordered in 2001.
