Mumbai, March 29

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 today, 29 Mar 21. 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.