General Pierre Schill, Chief of Army Staff of French Army is on a visit to India from 27^th to 29^th February 2024. The visit commenced with a poignant wreath laying ceremony at the National War Memorial on 27^th February 2024, where the French General paid homage to the fallen heroes of the Indian Armed Forces who have made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.

Thereafter, a ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented to the Chief of Army Staff of French Army at the South Block Lawns in New Delhi after which he called on General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff and other senior military leadership of the Armed Forces. They exchanged ideas and held constructive discussions on various contemporary issues, including strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two armies.    

During the visit, the General officer will be interacting with defence industry representatives and also witness Pinaka firing demonstration in Rajasthan. He will also be visiting Sapta Shakti Command in Jaipur and interact with senior military commanders. On 29^th February 2024, General Pierre Schill will be addressing the officers at the prestigious National Defence College (NDC).

The visit by General Pierre Schill highlights the shared commitment of France and India to strengthen their strategic collaboration across defence, security, and technology. Such bilateral visits and various exercises between the militaries of both the nations epitomise the longstanding bond between the armed forces and reinforce their dedication to promoting regional stability and international security.

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SC/VBY/PK