Modi, Macron talk Rafales, submarines
India and France as a symbol of deep trust, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the two nations want to co-develop and co-produce defence technology not just for domestic requirements but to export to friendly nations as well. The PM said that France was a natural partner for India's journey towards becoming a developed nation and a roadmap for strategic partnership for the next 25 years would be established. In a statement issued to the media before bilateral talks, the PM referred to joint production initiatives.
India has announced acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighter jets and construction of three more French Scorpene submarines. «Be it submarines or Indian naval ships, together we want to fulfil not just our requirements but also the requirements of third nations,» he said, adding there is scope for increased cooperation in defence space technology too. Cooperation could be enhanced in Space Based Maritime Domain Awareness, he said.
«We are moving ahead on plans by French companies to set up maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, production of spare parts and helicopter engine production in India,» the statement said. As residential powers in Indo-Pacific, the two had responsibility to work towards ensuring security, he said. The PM welcomed France's decision to grant long-term visas for Indian students and invited French varsities to set up campuses in India.
He welcomed a long-term agreement between Indian Oil and France's Total for liquefied natural gas. The PM was hosted for lunch by National Assembly president Yael Braun-Pivet at her official residence. «Discussions covered issues related to Parliamentary cooperation between the two countries and the areas of bilateral ties… The two leaders
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