PM Modi and President Hollande to hold talks today, Rafael jet deal unlikely to feature
Reports said the the proposed Rs. 60,000 crore Rafael jet deal are unlikely to feature in the discussion between the two leaders as the French President has already indicated that it could take more time.
"Talks are progressing", he told reporters on landing in Chandigarh on Sunday. "Here we will be crossing another step and which will go, we hope, towards India's acquisition of 36 Rafale jets. The commercial contract can only come after the inter-governmental accord, which will be discussed during my visit," he said.
PM Modi had announced in Paris last year that India would buy 36 Rafale fighter jets in flyaway condition for the Indian Air Force as India has plans to modernise its military and keep up with neighbours-Pakistan and China.
Indian and French negotiators on Friday debated the price of the combat planes.
The two leaders are expected to discuss deals on more nuclear reactors, smart cities, space cooperation, business and energy.
On Sunday, President Hollande and PM Modi met at Chandigarh's Rock Garden. They are expected to sit side by side to watch Tuesday's Republic Day parade. French soldiers will march down Rajpath along with Indian troops, a first for any foreign army.
Photo: Narendra Modi's Twitter Feed.
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