France and India ink 14 pacts enhancing nuclear energy, security

New Delhi, March 10: Strengthening strategic partnership and creating a golden chapter in the defence history of both countries, Narendra Modi greeted France President Emmanuel Macron today. Initiating the delegation talks, Mr Macron and PM Modi discussed on stepping up cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Besides defence, cooperation in the areas of nuclear energy and space are the other pillars of the strategic partnership between India and France. 

Besides the delegation talks, the countries signed 14 pacts. India and France signed 14 pacts in the strategic areas of security, nuclear energy, protection of classified information after extensive talks between Mr Modi and Mr Macron. It included an agreement on 'reciprocal logistical support' by the armed forces of both sides. The agreements include education, environment, urban development and railways.

Mr Macron, at a joint press briefing with Mr Modi, said India and France have decided to work together to deal with threats of terrorism and radicalization. Defence cooperation between the two countries now has a new significance, he said. Both the leaders also talked about cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

Briefing the media, Narendra Modi said that they are not only leaders of two strong independent countries and two diverse democracies, but are also successors to two rich and capable heritages. The history of India and France's bilateral cooperation in defence, security, space is very long.

 

On signing the contracts, French and Indian companies signed contracts worth 13 billion euros ($16 billion) today. The deals contain a contract for France's Safran to supply airline Spice Jet with engines, water system modernisation and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite.

Besides this, two sides have also signed an agreement on co-development of a full-fledged satellite constellation in the maritime domain. 

Moreover, the President also will be co-chairing the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance 11th March. The ISA is a unique effort that brings the world together to harness solar energy and create a cleaner as well as greener future.