New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had a telephonic talk with French Minister of Armed Forces Ms Florence Parly on June 2. They discussed matters of mutual concern including COVID-19 situation, regional security and agreed to strengthen the Bilateral Defence Cooperation between India and France.

Both Ministers appreciated the efforts made by Armed Forces of India and France in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

France reaffirmed its commitment to ensure timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singh welcomed French Chairmanship of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) from 2020 to 2022. The two Ministers agreed to work together to fulfil the India-France Joint Strategic Vision on the Indian Ocean Region of 2018.