India and France to Partner on Global Food Security Initiatives

India and France have the potential to jointly enhance agricultural and food processing efforts to bolster global food security through innovative and sustainable practices.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal emphasized this during the Asia Pacific Commission (APAC) 2024 Forum held by the French Foreign Trade Advisors in New Delhi. He also noted that adopting sustainable practices can help mitigate climate change and its growing negative effects worldwide.

Goyal highlighted the significant opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy between the two nations, referencing the achievements of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) co-sponsored by India and France. With more than 100 member countries, the alliance has played a crucial role in advancing clean and renewable energy, especially for emerging and developing nations.

In the aerospace industry, the Minister highlighted that India has emerged as the largest aviation market globally, with 1,500 aircraft orders and the potential to increase that number to 2,000. He pointed out that over the next thirty years, the Indian aviation market will serve as the largest demand aggregator and encouraged the French aviation sector to consider establishing manufacturing facilities in India.

Additionally, he noted the country’s rapid expansion of airport infrastructure, which has grown from 74 airports in 2014 to 125 today. He also revealed plans for the Government to add 75 more airports by 2029.

Goyal highlighted that India is swiftly advancing its defense sector, with the government actively promoting global companies to establish manufacturing operations in the country, allowing them full ownership of their enterprises.

In his address, the Minister anticipated the importance of enhanced collaboration with France in the defense arena and pointed out that the government, supported by a strong patent-protected framework, does not require technology transfer.

Goyal wrapped up by delivering a special message from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting the deep connection between India and France, founded on trust, common values, and a forward-looking vision.

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