Hollande for French-Indo ties to tackle terrorism

The visiting French President, Francois Hollande, today said one of the main agenda of his visit is to foster ties between Paris and New Delhi to tackle terrorism as both sides are affected by the menace.

Hollande, who arrived in Chandigarh today on a three-day visit to India, said India and France beyond the strategic partnership have had over the years the willingness to work in the same direction.

"I will talk about two: first, security, because we are affected by regional crisis and also terrorism. Both countries have been hit, so together we will increase our exchanges, cooperation between services and act to reinforce our military equipment. It is part of the agenda for this trip," he said.

Taking about his second priority, he said, "Following the success of COP 21 in Paris in December, we are going to translate our common drive to implement as fast as possible the Paris agreement in launching here the Solar Alliance."

"It is an epic adventure, where our companies, which are numerous here, will be welcomed in India first in line. Besides, numerous job opportunities are also in line during this trip on top of the diplomatic, political and military agenda," he added.

He said this trip is special to him because he has been invited to celebrate the Republic Day with French troops joining the military parade.

"It is the best symbol to illustrate the relations between France and India," he added.