India Perspectives - March - April 2016

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The long-standing civilisational relationship between India and France dates back from the Mughal rule to the days when thousands of Indian soldiers defended French territory during the two world wars. The relationship was further strengthened by the principled support of the French for India and its sovereign concerns in times of crises. Today, fighting climate change is an important part of the India-France bilateral agenda. On his second visit to India, the President of France, Mr Francois Hollande, inaugurated the secretariat of the Solar Alliance, yet another achievement from the Paris Summit, in Gurgaon. The focus is on delivering the goals and promises that have been set for 2020 and thereafter. Mr Hollande was also the guest of honour at the 67th Republic Day celebrations where India displayed its military might, cultural prowess and economic potential. In the Partnership section, we talk about the Memorandum of Understanding signed between India and France to share technical expertise on enhancing each other’s competency and skills. We also highlight the fact that it was the first time that foreign troops - French soldiers belonging to the crack 35th Infantry Regiment - marched in this year’s Republic Day parade.