France Declares Military Support to India amid Border Standoff with China

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France Declares Military Support to India amid Border Standoff with China

France has never shied away from promoting India’s interests on the global platform, from New Delhi’s stance on Kashmir at the United Nations Security Council and using the defence ecosystem to batting for the country at critical multilateral forums.

Expressing “steadfast and friendly support” of its armed forces, French Minister for Armed Forces Florence Parly has written to India’s Rajnath Singh condoling the death of 20 soldiers in Galwan Valley in clashes with China. Parly’s support comes at a time when France has already diverted game-changing missiles meant for its air force to India amid the rising tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.


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In a letter Monday, Parly said: “This (Galwan deaths) was a hard blow against the soldiers, their families and the nation. In these difficult circumstances, I wish to express my steadfast and friendly support, along with that of the French armed forces. I request you to kindly convey my heartfelt condolences to the entire Indian armed forces as well as to the grieving families”.

She also expressed her readiness to meet Defence Minister Singh, at his invitation, to “follow up on their ongoing discussions”. The strong words of support by the French was welcomed by officials in the Indian defence establishment, saying both sides are strategic partners.


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As per Report 6 Rafale fighter Jets will land in India on 27 July and can be operationally deployed sooner because the French have diverted missiles meant for itself to India.

The initial plan was for the missiles to start arriving in October. On a request from India, fighter pilots currently in France have also been given specialized training for aerial refuelling. Cutting-edge weaponry on jets, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles are being sent ahead of time.

The Support From France has given a big Diplomatic Boost to India amid the ongoing Ladakh Faceoff and rising tensions with China.


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