Narendra Modi, French President Emmanuel Macron take a ‘Big Leap’ in Delhi
India and France gave a thrust to their strategic alliance as the two countries signed agreements on nuclear energy, protection of classified information, logistics support between armed forces, maritime awareness, narcotics and trafficking featured among the 14 pacts worth $ 16 billion finalised on Saturday.
The two countries also inked pacts for cooperation in other areas, including railways, environment, education and smart city development.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met earlier on Saturday and discussed ways to take forward the strategic relations.
The French president also backed the controversial Rafale fighter jet deal and said defence cooperation between two countries has a new significance. The deal to buy 36 French fighter jets has triggered a controversy with the Congress alleging corruption.
The changing dynamics in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific was also discussed, with the French president touching upon the hegemonic power play.
China has been expanding its reach in the Indian Ocean Region with its vessels, including submarines, prowling the waters frequently.
“Our defence cooperation is very strong and we consider France among the most trusted defence partners,” Modi said at a joint media event with Macron.
Modi stressed that since developments in the Indian Ocean will play a key role …read more
