Puducherry:
French minister Edouard Courtial today visited cyclone Thane-affected families of French nationals here and in neighbouring Tamil Nadu village of Kottakuppam.
Official sources said the French minister of state for overseas French nationals was on a two-day visit to meet French nationals who were affected by the December 30 cyclonic storm and to participate in some official functions.
He called on Chief Minister N Rangasamy who assured him that the government will ensure full protection to the French nationals.
Edouard Courtial later told newsmen that he was pleased that there was vibrant solidarity and fraternity between France and Puducherry (a former French colony).
He thanked the Chief Minister for his assurance that full protection would be given to the French nationals in Puducherry and also for expressing interest in promotion of
tourism here with French collaboration.