PM Modi, French Foreign Minister discuss defence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Marc Ayrault today discussed a wide spectrum of issues, including defence and terrorism. The French side said the bilateral ties should move forward with the speed of a Rafale fighter jet. 

During the talks between Mr Modi and Mr Ayrault on the sidelines of Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in Bengaluru, both leaders had considerable discussions on international terrorism of which the two countries are victims.Briefing media in Bengaluru, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup said, both leaders reaffirmed close strategic partnerships between the two countries and deliberated upon several issues including bilateral relations in defence and



international terrorism. 

Swarup also said both the leaders had a comprehensive drill on bilateral relations in defence and Mr Modi reiterated upon Make In India in defence. 

The two leaders also discussed about the cooperation in civil energy with specific reference to Jaitapur nuclear plant. Noting that India has various defence needs, Mr Ayrault speaking to media said, India needs subamarines, fighter aircrafts, helicopeters and everything was discussed all of these.

In September last year, India had inked a 59,000 crore rupees deal with France for purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons and equipped with latest missiles that will give the IAF greater potency.