New Delhi: France has reaffirmed India that the delivery of Rafale is unaffected of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fighter jets will be flying in on time in India. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had a telephonic conversation with French Minister of Armed Forces, Florence Parly on Tuesday regarding various issues including the Chinese stand-off. A press release issued by the Ministry of Defence confirmed the development. They discussed matters of mutual concern including COVID-19 situation, regional security and agreed to strengthen the Bilateral Defence Cooperation between India and France.
''France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,'' the release mentioned. Both Ministers appreciated the efforts made by Armed Forces of India and France in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, it added.
''France has affirmed its commitment to ensuring timely delivery of Rafale Aircraft despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,''- Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence
Rajnath Singh welcomed French Chairmanship of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) from 2020 to 2022. The two Ministers agreed to work together to fulfil the India-France Joint Strategic Vision on the Indian Ocean Region of 2018.