Paris, February 12 (QNA) – The French Presidency Thursday welcomed India's decision to give its initial approval to a proposal to purchase 114 French Rafale fighter jets, describing the move as an important milestone on the path to concluding a potentially historic contract between the two countries.

According to a press release by the French Presidency, the Indian Defence Acquisition Council approved the aircraft acquisition project, considering the decision a strong signal and a significant step forward in military cooperation between Paris and New Delhi.

The statement added that technical and commercial discussions between the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation and the Indian Air Force are ongoing and described them as positive, emphasizing the French side's optimism for progress in the coming period.

This development comes ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's scheduled visit to India from Feb. 17 to 19, aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, and at a time when New Delhi is seeking to modernize its air force and bolster its defense capabilities.

India had already ordered 36 Rafale fighter jets for its air force in 2015 and another 26 for its navy by 2025. (QNA)