France extends support to India's stake in UNSC

NEW DELHI: France has pledged support for India's claim to permanent membership at the Security Council.

This was conveyed by the French side to the Indian government, official sources said.

They said France has also welcomed India's engagement in the UN peace-keeping operations expressing the view that the world would be less safe without Indian soldiers.

France reaffirmed its commitment to issues of international peace and security, especially counter-terrorism. It also registered its opposition to atrocities against humans and destruction of heritage property.

The French support comes as a boost to India's agenda of UN reforms and its ambitions for a place in the UN Security Council.

Counter-terrorism was also discussed in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with President Francois Hollande when he visited France earlier this year.