REAR Admiral Didier Piaton, Joint Commander of the French Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean and of the French Forces stationed in the United Arab Emirates (ALINDIEN), visited Mumbai from 29 to 30 March 2017 in conjunction with the visit of French Navy Ships Mistral and Courbet. FNS Mistral and FNS Courbet were accorded a warm welcome as they entered Mumbai harbour.
During the visit, the ALINDIEN, along with Capt Stanislas De Chargeres, CO FNS Mistral and Cdr Xavier Bagot, CO FNS Courbet interacted with Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command and other senior officers of Western Naval Command. Professional interaction and social events organised for the crew of FNS Mistral and FNS Courbet during their stay at Mumbai.
The French and Indian Navies regularly participate in the joint exercise ‘Varuna’ which began in 2000. Interaction between the French and Indian Navy has, over the years, nurtured into a strong partnership based on mutual interests and cooperation. The progress over the past few years has been encouraging, which is indicative of a growing understanding between the navies. With substantial interests in the Indian Ocean region, French Navy appreciates the importance of a reliable partnership with the Indian Navy, which is a major presence in the region.