From correspondents in India, 01:34 AM IST

India and France will Tuesday sign three pacts, including one on civilian nuclear cooperation and another on social security for Indian workers.

The second pact will enable Indians working in France to take their social security contributions back home, an Indian official said.

'They (France) will make work permits easily available and provide better facilities for Indian workers,' Nalin Suri, secretary (West) in the external affairs ministry, told reporters accompanying Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his visit to France.

'We want easier access for our businessmen and professionals,' Suri replied when asked about the visa liberalisation by the European Union for highly skilled Indian professionals and workers.

The two sides will also sign a pact on the peaceful use of outer space.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)