Army Chiefs of India and France meet to strengthen defence ties, counter-terrorism cooperation and UN peacekeeping efforts
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi met his French counterpart, General Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army (CEMAT), on the sidelines of the United Nations Chiefs of the Counter-Terrorism Conference 2025, reports 24brussels.
The meeting focused on enhancing the robust Indo-French strategic partnership, with discussions centered on expanding joint training exercises, counter-terrorism cooperation, and collaboration in defense technology. The Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) noted that both leaders emphasized the importance of improved interoperability in UN peacekeeping operations.
This engagement follows General Dwivedi’s visit to France earlier this year, a pivotal step in advancing bilateral defense cooperation. On February 25, 2025, he visited Marseille to gain insight into the French Army’s 3rd Division, took part in the joint exercise SHAKTI, and observed the modernization initiative known as “Scorpion.” The visit included a live demonstration in Carpiagne.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, General Dwivedi’s itinerary included meetings with senior French military officials at Les Invalides, beginning with a Guard of Honour and subsequently discussions with General Schill aimed at strengthening military ties. He also toured the Ecole Militaire in Paris, received briefings on the Future Combat Command, and visited the Battle Lab Terre in Versailles, indicating a deepening technological and operational collaboration.
During his time in France, General Dwivedi honored Indian soldiers from World War I at the Neuve Chapelle Indian War Memorial and delivered a lecture at the Ecole de Guerre, discussing modern warfare and India’s strategic vision. His visit coincided with a recent Bilateral Dialogue on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation held in Paris on February 14, where key topics included developments in nuclear, chemical, and biological disarmament, outer space security, and the role of Artificial Intelligence in military applications.
This continued engagement through high-level visits and defense dialogues highlights the growing strategic partnership between India and France, underpinned by mutual trust and a commitment to enhancing global peace and security.
