Macron raised Kashmir with Modi: French govt
January 13, 2020 15:50
France is closely following the situation in Kashmir, the French government said on Monday and noted that the issue was discussed during a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron three days ago.
A statement issued by Elyse Palace said the two leaders discussed the situation in the region of Kashmir in the "spirit of trust and frankness" that characterises bilateral ties.
"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 statement released here by French embassy said.
A statement issued by the Indian government on Friday after talks between Modi and Macron did not mention Kashmir.
"The two leaders exchanged views on a range of issues of mutual interest in bilateral relations as well as regional and global situations," the statement by PMO said.
Last week, the government took a group of 15 foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir to "see the efforts to bring back normalcy in the region" after abrogation of Article 370, the Ministry of External Affairs had said.
Envoys from European countries were not part of the group.
The French statement said Macron and Modi expressed their shared view on the necessity of de-escalation of tension in the Middle East, adding that they agreed to work together towards easing tensions by urging the parties to show restraint and responsibility.
The Middle East is witnessing increasing tension after Maj Gen Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite al-Quds force, was killed in a US drone strike. Iran retaliated by targeting US bases in Iraq with missile attacks. -- PTI
TOP STORIES
© 2024 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances