France is a powerful nation in Europe in all factors that include but are not limited to its military, economy, international status and diplomacy. Being a permanent member of the Security Council and having a special status in the United Nations has given France increased might in Europe. Influence and power aside, the foreign relations of France with several countries from West to East have been quite cordial.

The foreign relations of France with eastern countries like Japan have been particularly strong. The cultural and commercial relations of France with Japan have been improving day by day getting the two countries closer like never before. Japanese cuisine has been influenced by that of French, and many Japanese museums include old French sculptures, starting from the medieval period. In order to increase the trade between the two countries, the Export Promotion Council has been set up to provide information to exporters and importers from Japan.

India, the second largest emerging economy of the East, shares strong trade and a diplomatic relationship with France. France has supported India ever since it emerged as an independent state. The southern territory of Pondicherry that was under French control was handed over to India peacefully, which was the first incidence of the healthy foreign relations of France with India. Secondly, in recent years, France has supported India to get a permanent seat in the Security Council and was also the first country to sign agreements with India to provide nuclear reactor technology and raw materials. France also aids India by providing sophisticated submarines and aircrafts for India’s military defense.

The foreign relations of France with Africa have always been generous, especially since the arlier years of French history. This is because the French had several colonies in Africa. Even today, some form of French dialect is spoken in certain parts of Africa, and some states have also given it official status. In recent years, France has contributed aid to Africa on a large scale in terms of aids that include medical, educational and food for Africa’s poor nations.

Besides the nations outside Europe, France has been successful in improving diplomatic relations with United Kingdom, which had been a strong enemy in the past. The foreign relations of France with Germany have also improved, and both nations are seen as the joint force that could effectively take care of the security and integrity of European Union.