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India, France Discuss West Asia Crisis; Civil Aviation Monitors Situation

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a virtual exchange with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to discuss assessments of the West Asia conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed grave concern for displaced people in Lebanon and called for Hezbollah to cease its attacks while announcing French aid deliveries. Meanwhile, India's Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the situation's impact on air travel, with Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu overseeing stakeholder engagement. Operational data shows a significant number of flights and passengers continue to travel between India and the West Asia region.

Key Points: India-France Talks on West Asia, Aviation Ministry's Response

  • Diplomatic talks on West Asia conflict
  • Macron's concern for displaced in Lebanon
  • Call for Hezbollah to cease attacks
  • India's aviation ministry monitors situation
  • 45 flights carried 7,407 passengers on March 9
2 min read

EAM holds talks with French counterpart on West Asia

EAM Jaishankar meets French FM Barrot. Macron voices Lebanon concern. India's Civil Aviation Ministry monitors flights, ensures passenger safety.

"Respecting international law means protecting civilian populations. - Emmanuel Macron"

New Delhi, March 11

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday held talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on West Asia crisis.

Jaishankar said in a post on X, "Appreciate the exchange of assessments today with FM Jean-Noël Barrot of France on the West Asia conflict. Look forward to continuing it in person."

On the other hand, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed concern over people being displaced in Lebanon, while calling for Hezbollah to cease attacks.

In a post on X, he said, "Respecting international law means protecting civilian populations. The situation of the hundreds of thousands of people displaced in Lebanon is a matter of grave concern. France is currently delivering 60 tonnes of emergency aid for them, with the support of the CMA CGM foundation, in addition to what is being done with the United Nations and NGOs on the ground. Hezbollah must cease its attacks from Lebanon toward Israel and hand over its weapons to the Lebanese Armed Forces."

"Israel must respect Lebanese sovereignty and exercise restraint. Israelis and Lebanese people have the same right to live in peace and security. This is the very reason for the constant commitment of the French armed forces within UNIFIL since 1978. France is reliable and faithful to its friends," he added.

Meanwhile as for India, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is keeping a close watch on the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and its possible implications for air travel between India and the region. Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu is continuously overseeing the situation and maintaining direct engagement with all relevant stakeholders to ensure quick and coordinated responses. Airlines are making appropriate operational arrangements in response to the evolving situation, with passenger safety and continuity of services remaining the primary considerations, as per a statement by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Operational data for 09th March 2026 indicates that 45 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from West Asia, carrying 7,407 passengers.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
The focus on civilian safety by both ministers is crucial. So many innocent people displaced. India's role should be to advocate for peace and also ensure the safe return of any Indian nationals if the situation worsens. Our government seems prepared.
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Rohit P
7,400+ passengers in one day just from West Asia! This shows how deeply connected we are to the region. Any major disruption there hits our economy and families here. Kudos to the authorities for monitoring the flights so closely.
A
Arjun K
While engagement is good, I hope our foreign policy doesn't just follow the Western narrative. We have our own historical and strategic interests in West Asia. Our voice should be independent and rooted in our principles of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
K
Kavya N
The humanitarian aspect cannot be ignored. France delivering 60 tonnes of aid is commendable. India, with its experience in disaster management and large-scale aid, could also play a significant role in providing humanitarian assistance if needed.
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Michael C
Interesting to see the coordination. The mention of UNIFIL is key - long-term peacekeeping is essential. India has contributed to UN peacekeeping for decades. Perhaps there's a role for Indian diplomacy to help de-escalate, given our good relations with multiple actors in the region.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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