PM Modi gives warm welcome to Hollande

Read | Hollande in India — Retrospective tax is a closed chapter: PM Modi 

The Prime Minister arrived at Rock Garden at 2.51pm dressed in his customary attire. Modi waited for nearly six minutes at the garden and most of the time he was standing alone with arms crossed.

As Hollande arrived at 2.57pm, he was accorded a red-carpet welcome. As both the leaders shook hands, Modi embraced the French Premier, who was dressed in a blue suit, underscoring the warmth of their relationship. After coming to power in May 2014, Modi has met Hollande on several occasions.

Read | During India-France bilateral talks, on the table: Counter-terror, space, energy 

Looking relaxed, both the leaders laughed and chatted animatedly. They took a stroll of the garden and saw the sculptures and rag dolls depicting a village scene. Both the leaders walked out of the garden and left for Capitol Complex in Modi’s car at 3.10 pm.

Read | Hollande visit boosts case of Capitol Complex for UNESCO heritage status 

Students of Dev Samaj College performed Giddha and sang Punjabi Boliyan: “Tusi ghar sade aaye, asi fulle na samaye, sade ghar tashreef liaean nu sade saarin vallon jee ayan nu.”

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and other officers of Government of India were also present on the occasion.