New Delhi, Feb 20, SPA -- French President Jacques Chirac held talks with Indian leaders on Monday in a bid to boost trade ties with Asia's third largest economy and push forward plans to cooperate in the civilian nuclear energy and defense sectors. "I wish that a development in international rules on the issue of nuclear technology transfers allows this great responsible country to respond to its energy needs in the respect of the requirements of non-proliferation," Chirac said on Sunday. The French president is due to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the two leaders are also expected to address a joint news conference, Reuters reported. --SPA 11 52 Local Time 08 52 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/332466