Monday, February 20 2006 13:12 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: French President Jacques Chirac today (Feb 20,2006) expressed keen interest in strengthening long-standing relations with India.

Chirac, who was accorded a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, said "The long-standing ties of friendship and understanding between the two countries will be further strengthened."

"Our countries have so much in common, such as our belief in democracy and secularism and upholding of the values enshrined in the UN Charter," he added.

President A P J Abdul Kalam warmly welcomed Chirac at the Rashtrapati Bhawan where Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his cabinet colleagues were also present.

Chirac took the salute from the inter-services Guard of Honour with anthems of India and France being played in the background.

Chirac arrived here yesterday on a three-day visit during which the two countries will sign a declaration on nuclear cooperation, a defence agreement and some other pacts.

Chirac, who arrived here from Thailand, is accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including five ministers, and CEOs of 30 top French companies.