The visit strengthens the strategic partnership between India and France
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan wrapped up a comprehensive visit to France, reinforcing the long-standing strategic partnership and deepening bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations.
During the visit, General Chauhan engaged with Mr. Patrick Pailloux, Director of the Civil and Military Cabinet of the French Armed Forces Minister, and Lt. Gen. Vincent Giraud, Chief of the Military Cabinet of the Armed Forces Minister. These high-level interactions, along with discussions with General Thierry Burkhard (CEMA), facilitated the exchange of views on common interests and mutual security concerns.
Meetings at France’s Directorate General of Armament focused on enhancing the exchange of advanced dual-use technologies. Interactions with the top leadership of the French defence industry, including companies such as Dassault, Safran, Naval Group, and Thales Alenia Space, aimed at fostering future capacity-building for the Indian Armed Forces and boosting indigenization.
Exchanges with the French Land Forces Command (CFT), French Space Command (CDE), and the School of Military Studies (Ecole Militaire) provided opportunities to discuss India’s perspective on security challenges. These interactions also explored avenues for enhancing defence collaboration in space, modernization efforts, and bilateral training between the two countries.
Gen. Chauhan also paid tribute to the War Memorials of Neuve-Chapelle and Villers-Guislain, honouring the bravery of Indian Expeditionary Force soldiers who fought on the Western Front during World War I. These memorials stand as a testament to the enduring Indo-French relationship.
The India-France strategic partnership has gathered significant momentum over time and has now evolved into a multifaceted relationship spanning various areas of cooperation.
