(Image source from: India)
India and France have entered into 16 deals, committing themselves to get closer, particularly in the areas of business besides combating terrorism together. On Sunday,French President Francois Hollande flew into India for a three-day visit, when PM Narendra Modi welcomed him, breaking the protocol. Hollande would be the chief guest at India's 67th Republic Day parade in New Delhi, on 26 January 2016.
Modi said while addressing the India-France Business Summit that both the countries have potential to work together in various fields. One out of the 16 agreements signed include development of Chandigarh as a smart city. Modi said that he has lot to offer for French products, including skilled workforce as well as market.
PM Modi said, "We want to work closely with France... The world has accepted India as a good investment destination. India's talent and the manufacturing (skills) of France can achieve a lot. The trust and friendship with France is an asset for us."
The vital components for India-French ties are business and economic ties. CEOs belonging to 25 Indian as well as French companies attended the business summit.Vikas Swarup, external affairs ministry spokesman, "Defence, green economy, smart cities, infrastructure, transportation, water and financial sector on the agenda of the Indo-French CEO's Forum."
India, France commit to jointly fight terrorism
Mr Modi and French President Francois Hollande also shared their concern regarding the growing menace of terrorism in the wake of Paris and Pathankot attacks. PM pitched for a collective fight to defeat the "enemies of humanity". Mr Hollande reiterated the commitment of both the countries in fighting terrorism together.
While addressing the India-France Business Summit, the French President said, "We have to take humanity further. We have to combat terrorism and have to work together in this regard, whether it is military equipment or cyber security, so that security can be enhanced... We have to provide security to the world together by working together in the field of defence."
-Sumana
