India, France relationship 'historic': Macron

New Delhi: Describing the relationship between India and France as a 'historic' one, French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said his visit will open a new era of partnership between the two countries, especially in the field of defence and security.

Speaking after being accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, Mr Macron said, 'I am very happy and proud to be here, in your country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given me an invite during his visit to France in July last year. I intend to open a new era of partnership especially in the field of Defence and Security.'

Describing the relationship between the two countries as 'historic', he said, 'I think we have very good chemistry, our two great democracies have a historic relationship.'Earlier, the French President was accorded a ceremonial reception.

He and his wife Brigitte Macron were welcomed by President Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister at Rashtrapati Bhawan.The French President on Friday arrived on a four-day visit to India.Mr Macron, who was also accompanied by senior ministers from his Cabinet, was received at the airport by Mr Modi, in a special gesture.

He will hold delegation-level talks with the Prime Minister today and also take part in a Town Hall and have an interactive session, in which nearly 300 students from different levels and institutions are expected to participate.Mr Macron will take part in a Knowledge Summit too which will be attended by more than 200 academicians from both sides.On March 11, 2018, he will attend the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Summit, an initiative mooted by France and India and then visit Taj Mahal in Agra.(UNI)