Marseille (France), Feb 12 (NationPress) Describing it as a “historic moment”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday that the inauguration of an Indian Consulate in Marseille heralds a “new chapter” in the relations between India and France.

“A historic moment in Marseille! President Emmanuel Macron and I have inaugurated the Indian Consulate in this vibrant city, signifying a new chapter in the India-France relationship. This consulate will act as a vital bridge, enhancing our cultural, economic, and interpersonal connections,” PM Modi shared on X.

He also posted pictures of both leaders engaging with the enthusiastic Indian community at the venue, who expressed excitement over the new consulate.

“Marseille’s historical ties with India are well-documented. During World War I, it served as a crucial base for Indian soldiers. The city also has significant connections with Veer Savarkar. On this special occasion, I extend my gratitude to the French Government and congratulate the Indian diaspora,” stated Prime Minister Modi.

The establishment of the new Consulate General, which PM Modi announced during his visit to France in 2023, is anticipated to bolster interpersonal ties between the two nations and enhance commercial relations in Southern France, given that Marseille is strategically positioned at the intersection of global shipping routes, serving as a natural gateway to Southern Europe.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that the inauguration of the first Indian Consulate on continental France is indicative of the strengthening India-France relations.

“This will enhance people-to-people relations & the multi-dimensional relationship between the two countries,” the MEA stated following the consulate's inauguration.

Earlier, PM Modi, accompanied by President Macron, visited the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille to pay respects to the Indian soldiers who fought in the World Wars and sacrificed their lives.

The Mazargues War Cemetery is the second-largest site in Europe where Indian soldiers are buried, containing 1,487 Commonwealth war graves from World War I.

In a notable gesture reflecting the personal bond between the two leaders, PM Modi and President Macron traveled together from Paris to Marseille aboard the French Presidential Aircraft on Tuesday evening.

They engaged in discussions covering a wide range of bilateral relations and crucial global and regional issues, followed by delegation-level talks upon their arrival in Marseille. The leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to the India-France Strategic Partnership, which has progressively developed into a multifaceted relationship over the last 25 years, as stated by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

The discussions included all facets of the India-France strategic partnership, reviewing cooperation in defense, civil nuclear energy, and space.

They also explored avenues to enhance collaboration in technology and innovation, a partnership area that has gained prominence in light of the recent AI Action Summit and the forthcoming India-France Year of Innovation in 2026. The leaders called for improved trade and investment relations and welcomed the report from the 14th India-France CEOs Forum in this context.

A Joint Statement outlining the future trajectory for India-France ties was also adopted following the discussions. Ten outcomes across technology and innovation, civil nuclear energy, triangular cooperation, environment, culture, and people-to-people relations were finalized.

President Macron hosted a dinner in honor of PM Modi in the coastal town of Cassis, near Marseille, on Tuesday while PM Modi extended an invitation for President Macron to visit India soon.