General Pierre Schill, the Chief of Army Staff of the French Army, embarked on a significant visit to India from 27th to 29th February 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the bilateral defence ties between France and India. The visit commenced with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial on 27th February 2024, where General Schill paid tribute to the gallant soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces who made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation.
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, a ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented to General Schill at the South Block Lawns in New Delhi, symbolizing the warm reception and respect accorded to him by the Indian military. Subsequently, General Schill held discussions with General Manoj Pande, the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army, and other senior military leaders, where they exchanged ideas and explored avenues to bolster bilateral cooperation between the armed forces of France and India.
During his visit, General Schill is scheduled to engage with representatives from the Indian defence industry, underscoring the mutual interest in fostering collaboration and sharing expertise in defence technology. Additionally, he will have the opportunity to witness a Pinaka firing demonstration in Rajasthan, showcasing India’s indigenous artillery capabilities and its commitment to enhancing operational readiness.
General Schill’s itinerary also includes a visit to the Sapta Shakti Command in Jaipur, where he will interact with senior military commanders and gain insights into the operational dynamics of the Indian Army in the region. Furthermore, on 29th February 2024, General Schill is slated to address officers at the prestigious National Defence College (NDC), providing valuable perspectives on strategic defence matters.
