Prime Minister Modi invites strengthening of ties between India, France

New Delhi, Dec 15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday welcomed the fortifying of ties between India and France in areas, such as defence, space, counter-terrorism, maritime security, and civil nuclear cooperation.

He also conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims of the recent terrorist attack in France's Strasbourg and said that India remains with the nation in the battle against terrorism.

On Tuesday, a shooter killed four individuals at the Christmas advertise in the French city of Strasbourg before being shot dead.

Modi made these comments when French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian called on him.

The prime minister warmly recalled the state visit of President Macron to India in March 2018, and in addition their recent interaction on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Argentina, a statement from the prime minister's office said.

Le Drian briefed the prime minister on recent developments in the bilateral relationship, and French point of view on territorial and global issues, it said.

The prime minister welcomed the strengthening of bilateral ties in all circles, including barrier, space, counter-terrorism, maritime security, and civil nuclear cooperation, the statement said.