Source : Times Now
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| French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna-EAM Dr. Jaishankar meeting (Photo : Twitter @DrSJaishankar) |
New Delhi: India and France agreed to work towards establishment of an Indo-Pacific trilateral development cooperation, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said after having talks with French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna in the national capital on Wednesday.
Addressing a joint press conference along with his French counterpart, Jaishankar said that both the countries agreed to work towards establishment of Indo-Pacific trilateral development cooperation that would facilitate development projects, especially in framework of International Solar Alliance.
The Indo-Pacific trilateral would also provide a platform for Indian innovations and startups to demonstrate their relevance to the requirements of other societies, the external affaitrs minister said.
“I should also mention that International Solar Alliance now has formed up projects in 3 countries which shows the impact that India and France make together in Bhutan, Papua New Guinea and Senegal,” Jaishankar said.
Jaishankar informed that he and his French counterpart had discussions on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific tensions, Covid pandemic, developments in Afghanistan and the prospects of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
Jaishankar stressed India sees France as a major power with a global outlook and an independent mindset.
Speaking at the same press conference, the French foreign minister said that India and France have a very special and unique partnership.
Colonna also touched upon the issue of Russia-Ukraine conflict saying that “whatever is happening in Ukraine is not only an issue for Europe, it is a serious matter for entire world.”
In May 2022, the QUAD members met in Tokyo and assured to renew steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient.
India, Australia, Japan, and the United States are QUAD members.
“The Quad is committed to cooperation with partners in the region who share the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN unity and centrality and for the practical implementation of ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific,” Quad joint leaders’ statement had read.
