French President Nicholas Sarkozy arrived in New Delhi on Friday morning. He is on a two-day visit to India to give a boost to bilateral relations.

Contrary to speculations, Sarkozy's girlfriend Carla Bruni is not accompanying him on his maiden visit.

The French President, who will be the Guest of Honour at the Republic Day celebrations, was received by Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma at Palam airport.

He is accompanied by a high-level delegation of six ministers and over 60 top executives of French companies.

Talks on nuclear cooperation and a multi-billion dollar defence agreement will be the highlight of Sarkozy's visit.

The two sides will also discuss ways to enhance trade and business ties.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Sarkozy will hold talks on a wide range of issues covering bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

After the talks, the two sides will issue a joint statement spelling out a strategic roadmap for future cooperation between the two countries.