Paris, April 14: India and France have reinforced their strategic partnership during the latest round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), co-chaired by Vikram Misri and Martin Briens in Paris.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, discussions spanned key sectors including defence, civil nuclear energy, space cooperation, cyber and digital collaboration, artificial intelligence, innovation, and cultural engagement, alongside an exchange of views on regional and global developments.
During his visit, Misri also met Jean-Noel Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, to review bilateral cooperation and address ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly the evolving situation in the Middle East.
Both sides underscored the importance of upholding the ceasefire framework involving United States and Iran, while advocating for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz also emerged as a key priority, given its significance for global energy and trade flows.
The consultations further highlighted India–France coordination on broader multilateral issues, including addressing macroeconomic imbalances and advancing inclusive global governance frameworks, in alignment with France’s G7 Presidency.
Beyond strategic dialogue, Misri visited the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Paris, where he attended an exhibition showcasing contemporary Indian art, reinforcing cultural diplomacy initiatives.
The engagement forms part of a broader diplomatic outreach, with Misri scheduled to continue discussions in Germany, reflecting sustained high-level exchanges between India and key European partners aimed at deepening cooperation across priority sectors.
