(a) whether the Ninth round of Indo-French Strategic Dialogue was held in New Delhi;
(b) if so, the outcome thereof;
(c) whether there is any plan to hold joint Indo-French Military exercise; and
(d) if so, details thereof?
(a) whether the Ninth round of Indo-French Strategic Dialogue was held in New Delhi;
(b) if so, the outcome thereof;
(c) whether there is any plan to hold joint Indo-French Military exercise; and
(d) if so, details thereof?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)
(a) Yes, Sir. The Ninth round of Indo-French Strategic Dialogue was held in New Delhi on 6th January, 2003.
(b) The outcome of the talks was to confirm a close convergence of views on a range of topical international issues, including terrorism, sensitize the French government to our vital security concerns, and reinforce the basis of our defence and security relations.
(c) & (d): Discussions are going on with France in regard to Indo-French Military exercises.