What happened?
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi began a four-day visit to France on February 24, aimed at strengthening India-France military cooperation. The visit includes meetings with French military leadership, discussions on defence collaboration, and visits to key institutions such as the École Militaire and Battle Lab Terre. General Dwivedi will also lay a wreath at the Neuve Chapelle Indian War Memorial to honour Indian soldiers from World War I.
Why it matters to India?
France is one of India’s closest defence partners, with collaborations spanning fighter jets, submarines, and space security. This visit is expected to reinforce strategic military ties and facilitate joint training programs, enhancing India’s defence modernization efforts. Strengthening military collaboration with France also helps India counter regional security threats and fortify its global defence partnerships.