Article Posted on : - Feb 01, 2011

French Army Chief General Elrick Irastorza

NEW DELHI (PTI): Seeking to enhance defence cooperation and initiate joint exercises with the Indian Army, French Army Chief General Elrick Irastorza has arrived on a three-day visit here.

During his visit, Irastorza will finalise the schedule of joint exercises between the two armies and is also expected to hold discussion on issues of mutual interest.

He will also meet Defence Minister A K Antony and the three service chiefs and visit an Indian Army brigade.

The army to army exercises will follow the already successful Varuna and Garuda series of joint exercises between navies and air forces of the two countries.

The two sides will also discuss the ongoing modernisation process of the Indian armed forces and is likely to offer the French support for it.