France as a Maritime Power: Interests, Strategies, and Engagements in the Indian

While the British decided to relinquish all their commitments in the Indian Ocean region and to withdraw all their forces from East of Suez, the French showed no such inclination, despite the freedom struggles against colonial rule in many parts of the region. France continued its historical mission and developed new ambitions and interests in the Indian Ocean region. Its presence and commitment in the Western Indian Ocean (and the South Pacific) resulted in Paris playing a significant role in global affairs.

The French presence in the Indian Ocean region added 2.6 million km², constituting twenty-four percent of its EEZ, providing it to explore and exploit the resources in the oceanic waters. Though it is an extra-regional power, the island states have acknowledged France as a resident state in the region.

The volume focuses on understanding how France has continued its dominance in the Indian Ocean region. It examines France’s political, economic, and strategic interests and its relation with the Western Indian Ocean states - Mauritius, Madagascar, Seychelles, and Comoros. Further, the volume covers France’s role in the Indian Ocean Commission, its policy towards demilitarisation of the region, and its bilateral and multilateral engagements in the region and beyond.