President Emmanuel Macron raises Kashmir issue with PM Modi

Macron informed Modi that his nation was continuously following the developments closely.

A statement issued by Elysee Palace mentioned that the two leaders expressed their shared view on the necessity of de-escalation in the Middle East.

"The President of the French Republic and the Prime Minister of India expressed their shared view on the necessity of de-escalation in the Middle East. They agreed to work together towards easing tensions by urging the parties to show restraint and responsibility," read the statement.

"They reiterated their attachment to the full implementation of the goals defined during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Chantilly on 22nd August 2019 and India’s participation in the Biarritz G7 Summit. They agreed on the interest in intensifying ministerial visits in both countries in the course of this year," the statement said.

Speaking on the Kashmir issue, the statement said: "In the spirit of trust and frankness that characterises their relations, the French President and the Indian Prime Minister discussed the situation in the region of Kashmir, which France continues to follow closely."

The discussion between the two leaders over the Kashmir issue was not mentioned in the statement released by the Indian government.

The Indian government on Aug 5 scrapped Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir which gave special status to the region.

Two Union Territories were also formed.