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France keen on stronger defence, aviation ties with India

France has decided to step up co-operation with India in the production of defence materials as well as aviation and transport.

The offer was conveyed to Defence Minister George Fernandes by visiting French Minister for Public Works, Housing, Transport and Tourism Jean Claude Gayssot when they met in New Delhi yesterday.

Later, replying to questions from reporters, Gayssot said France could also co-operate with India in manufacturing transport aircraft for defence and civilian purposes.

France has emerged as a leader in aviation and French aircraft and helicopters are sold the world over and appreciated for their state-of-the-art technology, he said, adding that his country is prepared to enter into an agreement with India to transfer technology in this sphere.

Recalling his long association and friendly ties with India, Gayssot said his country wants to strengthen bilateral co-operation in railways, surface transport and other sectors.

Earlier, an Indian spokesman said the 45-minute discussion between the French minister and Fernandes included co-operation in aviation, involving the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Defence Production and Supplies Secretary Prabir Sengupta and French Ambassador Claude Blanchemaison were among those present at the meeting.

Gayssot, who is leading a high-level delegation which has signed agreements with the ministries of railways and surface transport, also met some other Indian politicians, including Railway Minister Nitish Kumar and Surface Transport Minister M Thambi Durai.

He is in Calcutta today to attend a seminar on French know-how on transport infrastructure and urban development. A seminar on the subject was held in New Delhi on Monday and will also be held in Bangalore. Gayssot will attend that too.

UNI

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