French and Indian officials met this past week to have their yearly diplomatic meeting over the relationship and security of their countries. In an ongoing crisis over Kashmir, Emmanuel Bonne, an advisor to the French president, says that France is willing to support India. He added that the French delegation will not let China, Pakistan’s ally, mess around in the upcoming United Nations Security Council meeting. During the security talks, France and India emphasized the necessity of keeping the Indo-Pacific region safe. Both officials were also in talks about continuing and bettering their bi-lateral security intelligence, specifically their maritime surveillance in the Indian Ocean.
The French getting involved in the Kashmir conflict is surprising to say the least. As Indian and French relations go, they have been getting closer and closer these last couple of years. Their alliance has been mutually beneficial as well. On the outside, these countries do not seem like they have a lot in common. They are both set be the upcoming leaders of their regions. Due to Brexit, France has an opportunity to become a power figure for the European Union. India has been developing more through their global markets, therefore it’s almost necessary to have a strong relationship with them.
From a liberal perspective, France may want to get involved in order to stop the humanitarian issue in Kashmir. France wants to lead the efforts in controlling the human atrocities committed by both India and Kashmir. On the other hand, the realist perspective shows that France may want more power. As the United Kingdom leaves the European Union, it leaves a space for someone to take their place. By getting involved in the Kashmir conflict, France can take the lead in stopping conflicts. The United States got power in a similar fashion as well. It would be essential for France to do the same for them to be on the same level.