French President Francois Hollande arrive on a three-day visit to India today. Mr Hollande land in Chandigarh. External Affairs Ministry sources said, the French President will be joined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the sightseeing to tourist spots Rock Garden, Capitol Complex, Government Museum and Art gallery at Chandigarh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President are expected to address CEO forum and India-French Business Summit at Chandigarh in the evening today. Mr Hollande will depart from Chandigarh to New Delhi in the evening.
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He will be accorded ceremonial reception at the forecourts of Rashtrapati Bhawan tomorrow. Later, he will hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister at Hyderabad House. Thereafter signing of agreements in various key sectors will take place.
On 26th, the French President will witness Republic Day parade at Rajpath as the chief guest. This is the fifth time that a serving President of France will be the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day function which is itself a record.
During his visit the French President will meet India’s top leadership.
India and France will hold detailed discussion on terrorism in the backdrop of Paris and Pathankot attacks. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said talks will be held to further deepen the cooperation on terrorism as it has now become an international problem.
Ways to enhance trade between the two countries will also be high on the agenda. Bilateral trade between the two sides is around eight billion Dollars of which 5 billion Dollars are India’s exports to France. On the defence side, negotiations are on advance stage for 36 Rafale multi-role fighters deal with France. New Delhi’s relationship with Paris is very comprehensive. It covers number of sectors such as defence, civil nuclear cooperation, railways, smart cities, science and research, space and culture. In all these areas India expects some forward progress during the French President’s visit.