A strategic partner

Even though it has fallen in line with the generally condemnatory language of the P-5 and G-8, it has created the diplomatic space for a dialogue with India on non-proliferation issues. Paris also does not believe economic sanctions are effective in altering domestic policy and now has the satisfaction of seeing Washington coming round to its view.

It is understandable therefore that Vajpayee should have delayed his departure from New York in order to be able to meet President Jacques Chirac and Prime Minister Lionel Jospin on his way back and to discuss with them India’s security interests and evolving position on the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. Although the visit fell somewhat short of a full-fledged state visit in that it did not result in the usual series of joint statements and agreements, the stop-over in Paris seems to have been worthwhile. The two governments have agreed to conduct a “strategic dialogue” through special emissaries, Brajesh Mishra for Indiaand a senior diplomat for France. No doubt the term, strategic dialogue, tends to be used these days for everything and nothing. In this case it should not be seen as a mere salve for Indian sensitivities over diplomatic isolation after Pokharan.

Well before the tests both capitals had recognised the need for closer political ties and had begun to examine the prospects for cooperation in economic, defence and high technology areas.

Hopefully, apart from having brought about better French understanding of India’s position on nuclear issues, Vajpayee’s visit has laid the ground for a higher level of French investment in Indian infrastructure, particularly the power and telecom sectors. There is no official word as yet about cooperation in the civilian nuclear power sector. But it is no secret that India intends to enlarge its nuclear power programme by buying technology from abroad. And the French who have assisted India’s programme in the past, notably by supplying fuel to Tarapur, are looking aggressivelyat the export market. No doubt these mutual interests were reaffirmed in Paris and ways of lifting export controls were discussed.