Ambassador of France to India, Mr. Jérôme Bonnafont today called on the BJP President Shri Rajnath Singh at his residence, 38 Ashok Road in New Delhi.

Raising the issue of proposed Indo-US nuclear deal Mr Bonnafont discussed the views prevailing in the IAEA member countries on India specific nuclear safeguards.

Expressing BJP's concern Shri Singh said, "We are opposed to the proposed Indo- US Nuclear in its existing form because it fails to address our strategic concerns. BJP is in favour of sharing strategic relationship with the US and other countries."

Highlighting the historical and cultural affinities between both the countries Shri Singh said, "BJP considers France as one of the most India-friendly countries. When India conducted nuclear tests in 1998 it was the only Western nation which did not impose economic sanctions on India."

BJP President appreciated the France President Mr Nicholas Sarkozy's proposal to enlarge the G-8 to G-13 that would include countries like India. "India seeks active support from France in its bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council", he added.

Mr Bonnafont assured the BJP President that France would support India in getting a permanent berth in the UN Security Council. He further added that the French companies were planning to invest in India around 10 billion Euros in the next five years.

In his hour long meeting with the BJP President Mr. Bonnafont discussed the present political situation in India and BJP's role in future course of events including the forthcoming General Elections.

The meeting was also attended by the Convenor of BJP Foreign Affairs Cell, Shri S K Arora and Political Advisor to BJP President, Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi.

(Shyam Jaju)
Headquarter Incharge