India has recently signed MoUs with two important partners in the Indo-Pacific region: the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and France.
These MoUs mark a new chapter in India’s diplomacy and have the potential to create a positive impact on various fronts. But what is a Memorandum of Understanding? It is a special agreement signed between countries or partners to work together on different matters. The India-UAE-France MoU holds significant importance in international relations by strengthening diplomatic ties, promoting economic cooperation, addressing global challenges, and signalling commitment and reliability in the global arena.
In this blog post, we will explore the details of these MoUs, and why they are essential for India’s interests.
India’s MoU with the UAE
On July 15, 2023, India and the UAE signed an MoU to set up a framework to use their respective local currencies to settle bilateral transactions.
The countries also agreed upon linking their fast payment systems: the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) of India and the Instant Payment Platform (IPP) of the UAE. This will enable users in either country to make fast, convenient, safe, and cost-effective cross-border fund transfers.
The MoU concerning payments and messaging systems aims to foster economic cooperation and investment opportunities between India and the UAE, which are significant trading partners for each other. This MoU will facilitate the acceptance of domestic cards from both nations and streamline the processing of card transactions.
Moreover, the MoU reflects the increasing collaboration in defence and security matters between India and the UAE. In recent years, they have engaged in regular dialogues and joint exercises, focusing on counter-terrorism, maritime security, cyber security, and space cooperation. The UAE has also been a supporter of India’s aspiration for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
The MoU also underscores the cultural and people-to-people exchanges that have thrived between India and the UAE due to their shared historical and civilizational ties. The two countries have fostered tourism, education, healthcare, sports, and cultural activities to strengthen the bond between their peoples.
India’s MoU with France
On June 13, 2023, India and France signed an MoU to enable the use of UPI in France. They decided to allow the use of UPI in France, which is very popular in India. This means that Indians visiting France can pay for things Using UPI and RuPay cards.
But that’s not all! India and France have been working together on many different things. They are great friends in the fields of technology, like artificial intelligence and digital transformation. The MoU also complements the renewable energy and climate change initiatives between India and France, which are co-founders of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), a global platform to promote solar energy among 121 countries.
The MoU also strengthens India-France defence and strategic partnerships. France is a major defence supplier to India, providing equipment like Rafale jets and submarines. They conduct military exercises and coordinate on global issues like maritime security and counterterrorism.
Significance of India’s Collaborations with the UAE and France
India’s MoUs with the UAE and France underscore its growing involvement and influence in the Indo-Pacific region, aimed at advancing both economic and strategic interests. These agreements will provide several benefits to India, including:
- Strengthening economic ties and trade relations with two significant partners, fostering growth and development prospects.
- Advancing technological capabilities and innovation potential to tackle developmental challenges and leverage its demographic dividend.
- Diversifying energy sources and promoting clean energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and supporting climate action goals.
- Enhancing defence and security preparedness to effectively address threats and challenges in the region and beyond.
- Expanding diplomatic outreach and multilateral cooperation to shape regional and global order in alignment with India’s values and interests.
Conclusion:
India has signed MoUs with the UAE and France, showing its dedication to improving relationships and making new partnerships. These deals can bring positive changes in the areas of economy, defence, technology, and culture, making India more important globally. As these collaborations happen, we will see a stronger and more connected India taking a big role in world affairs.
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