Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has wrapped up a productive official trip to France, solidifying the enduring strategic partnership between India and France.
The purpose of the visit was to further bolster the already strong defense ties between the two countries, which have seen significant progress in recent years.
During his stay, General Chauhan engaged in discussions with key French defense officials, including Patrick Pailloux, Director of the Civil and Military Cabinet of the Minister of the French Armed Forces, and Lieutenant General Vincent Giraud, Chief of Military Cabinet of the Minister of the Armed Forces, as well as General Thierry Burkhard (CEMA), his counterpart. These dialogues covered a wide range of common interests and mutual security concerns.
The visit also involved deliberations at France's Directorate General of Armament aimed at enhancing the exchange of advanced dual-use technologies. Additionally, General Chauhan interacted with top executives from leading French defense companies such as Dassault, Safran, Naval Groups, and Thales Alenia Space, with a focus on bolstering the futuristic capabilities of the Indian armed forces through indigenous development.
Discussions extended to various French defense entities including the French Land Forces Command (CFT), the French Space Command (CDE), and the School of Military Studies (Ecole Militaire). These talks provided an opportunity to articulate India's perspective on security challenges and explore avenues for enhancing defense cooperation in space and modernization efforts, as well as strengthening bilateral training initiatives.
General Chauhan also paid tribute to the War Memorials of Neuve-Chapelle and Villers-Guislain, honoring the soldiers of the Indian Expeditionary Force who fought on the Western Front during World War I. These memorials underscore the longstanding Indo-French relationship, which has evolved into a multifaceted partnership spanning diverse areas of cooperation.
Overall, the visit marks another milestone in the deepening strategic ties between India and France, reaffirming their commitment to mutual security and cooperation.
