Downplaying India’s decision to scrap a $600-million deal with European defence company Eurocopter for purchase of 197 Fennec helicopters, France on Friday expressed confidence that it will win the deal in the second bidding process.
The government on December 6 scrapped the deal alleging that Eurocopter had “deviated” from procedures. Visiting French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner said the France-based company will participate in the second bidding process. Kouchner said, “The scrapping of the deal will not impact the bilateral relations between the two countries.” Referring to the government’s reason for calling off the deal because of “procedural questions”, the French minister said, “I am not satisfied.” This deal is expected to be the highlight of French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s visit to India next year. “The French Fennec helicopters are the best. Fennec is world class and is perfectly adapted to the Indian conditions,” he stressed. Responding to another question, the French minister said the Indian decision can be protested against but there was no use. “Yes, we can complain but it is useless to complain,” Kouchner remarked.
He also denied reports that Indian ambassador to France , Ranjan Mathai was summoned by the Elysee Palace for an explanation about the scrapping of the deal. The copter issue figured in discussions between Kouchner and his Indian counterpart Pranab Mukherjee during talks on Thursday.