From “Strategic Autonomy” to the France - India Strategic Partnership: A Comparative Analysis and Impact Assessment

Abstract

In contemporary international relations, few countries with such varied development levels, histories, strategic cultures, and geographical regions share as much strategic thinking as France and India. Both countries share the view of maintaining strategic autonomy, which refers to the ability to make independent decisions in foreign policy without external pressure, particularly from major powers. While the concept of “strategic autonomy” is interpreted differently in the Western and Eastern contexts, France and India have many similarities and points of convergence. France's motto of “ally but not aligned”, closely aligns with ndia's perspective of “building partnerships, not alliances, and the right to take independent stances.” This shared approach a crucial foundation for the development of the France - India Strategic Partnership over the past several decades.  However, differences in how each country implements the principle of strategic autonomy have resulted in the Franco-Indian relationship being viewed as a model that reflects the convergence of Eastern and Western values. This relationship is framed around concepts of “strategic partnership” and “autonomous partnership”.