A senior French Navy officer stated that France aims to promote a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific region in collaboration with all its partners in the area. Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, the commander of the French Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which includes the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, also mentioned that the French Navy seeks to enhance its interoperability with all its allies and partners worldwide.

He made these remarks to the media aboard the Charles de Gaulle, which is currently docked at Mormugao Port Authority in South Goa as part of Mission CLEMENCEAU 25. The French carrier strike group made a stopover in Goa during its mission.

At present, the CSG is deployed in the Indian Ocean, where it is conducting joint training exercises with regional allies, particularly India, before heading to the Indonesian zone for Exercise La Perouse and later to the Pacific Ocean for Exercise Pacific Steller. Rear Admiral Mallard explained that the main objectives of Mission CLEMENCEAU 25 include enhancing interoperability with allies and partners globally. He emphasized that interoperability signifies partnership, and partnership leads to security.

Another key goal is to contribute to national operations aimed at strengthening maritime security in major straits. He added that the French Navy is committed to promoting a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific region with all its partners. He also reiterated the Navy’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the security of French nationals and interests in the Indo-Pacific.

Rear Admiral Mallard described the French Carrier Strike Group as a unique military asset in Europe. He noted that it enables France to protect its territory, strategic interests, and citizens worldwide. The task group is capable of observing and understanding events across three dimensions and various domains. He further explained that the French carrier group serves as a versatile tool, effective for a wide range of purposes, from crisis management to high-intensity warfare.