India-France News

In his departure statement, Modi said his visit to France was particularly special as he will join President Macron for the French National Day, or Bastille Day celebrations in Paris as the Guest of Honour

General Manoj Pande, the Chief of the Army Staff commenced his four day travel to France in a bid to strengthen the defence ties between India and the French nation. The visit will see Pande meeting the French counterparts in his stay that will last for four days

India and France expressed serious concern about the violation of human rights in Afghanistan They call for an inclusive and representative government in the country through a joint press statement The two countries "reiterated their strong support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan"

"First jet aircraft were supplied in 1950s k/a 'TOOFANI' and since then, we have been cooperating on Jaguar, Mirage 2000 and now Rafale," said Emmanuel Lenain. "We feel that we are a country of the region. We feel we are India's neighbour," he added.

India has been engaging with countries under IPOI. Both India and France are increasing engagement, especially in defence and maritime domain. French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle will take part in India-France Varuna naval exercise.

French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday arrived in New Delhi for his official visit. The French minister would be in India for a four-day visit. He would be meeting External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and would be expected to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well.

Sitharaman said the developments in the Middle East were of great significance for India.