A French naval delegation headed by Rear Admiral Jacques Fayard, French Joint Forces Commander in the Indian Ocean (ALINDIEN) called on Vice Admiral Hari Kumar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command at Mumbai. During the interaction, growing cooperation between both the navies on maritime issues and enhanced interoperability for focused maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region were discussed. The present interaction is significant as the the annual bilateral exercise ‘Varuna’ is scheduled to be held between Indian Navy and French Navy’s Carrier Strike Group during April 2021.
During the recent past, there has been enhanced bilateral cooperation between India and France, especially in the domain of maritime security. Interactions between India and France have evolved into a strong partnership based on mutual aspirations. The regular conduct of bilateral exercises, goodwill visits by ships and high level delegation visits involving both the navies are indicative of growth in mutual cooperation and jointmanship.
FRENCH NAVAL SHIPS IN KOCHI
French Naval Ships Tonnerre (Amphibious Assault Ship) and Surcouf (Frigate Class Ship) are on a good will visit to Kochi. The ships arrived at Cochin Port Trust last week and were received by Senior Naval Authorities in the background of fanfare by the naval band. The French delegation comprising Mr Emmanuel Lenain, French Ambassador in India at New Delhi, Rear Admiral Jacques Fayard, French Joint Forces Commander in the Indian Ocean (ALINDIEN) and Mrs Lise Talbot Barre, Consul General of France in Puducherry were also present, as part of the visit.
The French delegation and the Commanding Officers of the French Naval ships called on Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, Vice Admiral AK Chawla. Interactions between India and France have evolved into a strong partnership especially in the domain of maritime security. The regular conduct of bilateral exercises, goodwill visits by ships and high level delegation visits involving both the navies are indicative of growth in mutual cooperation and jointmanship.