Enduring Bond Between PM Modi and Macron Strengthens Indo-French Relations
Click to start listening
Synopsis
French President Emmanuel Macron's warm farewell to PM Modi at the airport highlighted their enduring friendship and the strong ties between India and France, as PM Modi concluded a significant visit focused on various sectors, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Close personal friendship between Modi and Macron.
- Macron's farewell marks the strength of Indo-French ties.
- Focus on AI, commerce, energy, and culture during the visit.
- Importance of mutual trust in the strategic partnership.
- Significant discussions on global issues and future collaboration.
Marseille (France), Feb 12 (NationPress) Highlighting the robust relationship between the two nations, the close bond and personal friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi was evident as French President Emmanuel Macron personally came to bid farewell to PM Modi at the airport, concluding a historic visit on Wednesday.
"Thank you France! This productive visit comes to an end, during which I participated in events covering AI, trade, energy, and cultural connections. My heartfelt thanks to President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France," stated PM Modi as he boarded the flight to the United States.
Macron's thoughtful gesture showcased the remarkable camaraderie once again between the two leaders throughout this significant trip.
The visit commenced with the customary friendly embrace upon PM Modi's arrival in Paris for a dinner at the Elysee Palace on Monday, continued with multiple warm hugs during the AI Action Summit—which Prime Minister co-chaired with Macron—on Tuesday, and concluded on Wednesday with a busy day in the historic city of Marseille.
Demonstrating their personal connection, PM Modi and President Macron traveled together from Paris to Marseille aboard the French Presidential Aircraft on Tuesday evening.
Following discussions with his "friend" Macron on various facets of bilateral relations, pivotal global and regional topics, as well as progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for the India-France strategic partnership, the French President hosted a dinner in honor of PM Modi in the coastal town of Cassis, near Marseille.
Over the years, both leaders have cultivated a strong bond, enriching the India-France Strategic Partnership.
As a resident power in the Indo-Pacific, France sees India as its "primary strategic partner" in Asia.
"A giant in global history, poised to play a decisive role in the future, a strategic partner, a friend. We take pride in hosting India as our guest of honor at the 14 July parade," Macron expressed in July 2023, warmly welcoming PM Modi at the renowned Champs-Elysees.
"1.4 billion Indians will forever appreciate France for being a reliable ally. May our bond deepen even further!" PM Modi replied to the French President.
During that visit, PM Modi was awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, France's highest accolade, by Macron, who characterized India as an "essential partner for addressing the major challenges of the 21st century.
In January 2024, while welcoming Macron at India's 75th Republic Day celebrations—France's sixth participation as Chief Guest, the highest of any country—PM Modi emphasized that the French President's presence not only fortifies the ties between both nations but also contributes a significant chapter to their shared history of friendship and collaboration.
The profound mutual trust and steadfast friendship between the two leaders, which form the foundation of Indo-French ties, were once again apparent during the recent visit.
The day after co-chairing the AI Summit with Macron, PM Modi visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in Cadarache, southern France, marking the first visit by any Head of State or Government to this ambitious fusion energy project that aims to revolutionize energy production.
