India all set for French President Sarkozy’s four-day visit

NEW DELHI - India is all set to host French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who will be paying a four-day state visit from December 5-08, External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vishnu Prakash has said.

Sarkozy would be accompanied by his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy and a top-level delegation, including several ministers.

Addressing the media here on Wednesday, Prakash said that the President would arrive in Bangalore on December 4, where he will visit the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

“On the fifth evening in New Delhi, he would have a restricted meeting with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who would also be hosting a private dinner in the honour of the visiting dignitary and his spouse,” Prakash said.

“On Monday, sixth December there will be delegation level talks at Hyderabad House followed by signing of agreements and a joint press conference. Prime Minister would host a working lunch in honour of President Sarkozy. He would be meeting with the President of India,” he added.

He also mentioned that the French President and his wife would visit the Taj Mahal.

From New Delhi, Sarkozy would visit Mumbai to pay a tribute to the victims of the 26/11 militant attacks.

“On the seventh, Tuesday, he would leave for Mumbai where he would be visiting the Police Memorial in honour of those who lost their lives in the heinous terrorist attack on 26th November (2008). He would also visit Taj and Oberoi Hotels to pay tributes to those who were killed,” Prakash added.

Sarkozy last visited India in January 2008, when he was the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. (ANI)