ABSTRACT
France is present in all oceans due to its overseas territories and possesses the second largest maritime territory on earth. This situation leads to a series of opportunities stemming from ocean resources and the development of the French blue economy, but also to security challenges to enforce French sovereignty in distant waters. France considers itself an Indo-Pacific nation due to its overseas territories, seven of which are located in the region, and is involved in many partnerships. After being left feeling blindsided by the creation of AUKUS, France has to rethink some of its approach to the Indo-Pacific, in order to fulfil its strategic objectives. This contribution outlines how France sees its maritime security challenges, and assesses the French effort to address such challenges, focusing on Paris' key interests and priorities at sea. It then evaluates the French strategy, particularly in terms of its partnerships and offers recommendations.
