India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visited France from June 11 to 14, reaffirming the robust and long-standing strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit comes just four months after Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's trip to France, underscoring the commitment of both countries to deepen their cooperation.
During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar called on President Emmanuel Macron, conveying warm greetings from Prime Minister Modi and expressing appreciation for France's strong support in the fight against terrorism. The two nations committed to fully implementing the Horizon 2047 Roadmap and Defense Industrial Roadmap agreed upon by their leaders.
Bilateral discussions between Dr. Jaishankar and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot focused on progress made in strategic domains such as defence, security, space, counter-terrorism, and global issues. The ministers also exchanged views on emerging sectors like technology, innovation, trade, investment, health, life sciences, education, talent mobility, museum cooperation, and people-to-people ties.
The visit reinforced the convergence of views between India and France on regional and global issues, including the Indo-Pacific. Dr. Jaishankar participated in the inaugural edition of the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue held in Marseille, contributing to discussions on critical geopolitical developments and regional dynamics.
On the sidelines, Dr. Jaishankar met Foreign Minister of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan, further cementing the commitment of both nations to work together on bilateral, regional, and global platforms. The visit is expected to inject renewed momentum into the India-France Strategic Partnership, building on the strong foundation of trust and shared values.
The External Affairs Minister also expressed appreciation for French Government's condolences on the tragic loss of lives in a plane crash in Ahmedabad earlier this week. This gesture underscores the close relationship between the two nations and their mutual respect for each other's concerns.