Sir — This refers to the editorial, “Old friendship stronger” (January 27). The recent visit of French President François Hollande will surely lead to an uptick in India-France relations for several reasons.
First, both countries have agreed to take steps to counter terrorism and the spread of the Islamic State, and enhance counter-terror cooperation. Second, since both the countries are founding members of the International Solar Alliance, one hopes that it gives them the opportunity to promote clean and renewable sources of energy. Third, it is also expected that there will be collaboration in the sectors of space and nuclear power.
One just hopes that India-France ties are not totally linked to the fate of the Rafale deal. The meeting of the heads of the two Governments should extend the boundaries of the production and consumption frontier of India and France and ensure growth with peace. It is imperative that the two countries march ahead in all areas and ensure growth. Concrete actions are important.