Enduring Friendship Between PM Modi and Macron Strengthens India-France Relations
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Synopsis
The personal bond between PM Modi and President Macron was evident as Macron personally bid farewell to Modi after a significant visit to France. This strong relationship underpins the enduring ties between India and France, highlighted through collaborative discussions and key events during Modi's visit.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's significant visit to France highlighted strong bilateral ties.
- Macron's farewell emphasized their personal friendship.
- Discussions covered the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for strategic partnership.
- Both leaders share a commitment to global challenges.
- Mutual trust strengthens Indo-French relations.
Marseille (France), Feb 12 (NationPress) Highlighting the robust bonds between the two nations, the close relationship and personal camaraderie shared between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron was evident as he personally bid farewell to PM Modi at the airport following his significant visit to France on Wednesday.
"Thank you, France! A fruitful visit has come to an end, during which I participated in events covering areas such as AI, commerce, energy, and cultural connections. My heartfelt thanks to President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France," stated PM Modi as he boarded his flight to the United States.
Macron's thoughtful farewell showcased the remarkable friendship that was vividly displayed once again between the two leaders throughout this historic visit.
It all commenced with a characteristic friendly embrace upon PM Modi's arrival in Paris for a dinner at the Elysee Palace on Monday, followed by several warm greetings during the AI Action Summit—co-chaired by Prime Minister Modi and the French President—on Tuesday, and culminated on Wednesday with an eventful day in the historic city of Marseille, filled with activities.
Demonstrating their personal connection, PM Modi and President Macron traveled together from Paris to Marseille in the French Presidential Aircraft on Tuesday evening.
After engaging in discussions with his "friend" Macron covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, essential global and regional matters, along with advancements regarding the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for the India-France strategic partnership, the French President hosted a dinner in honor of the Prime Minister in the picturesque coastal town of Cassis, close to Marseille.
The strong bond between these two leaders has been cultivated over recent years, adding new dimensions and strength to the India-France Strategic Partnership.
As a resident power in the Indo-Pacific, France views India as its "primary strategic partner" in Asia.
"A giant in world history, with a pivotal role to play in the future, a strategic partner, a friend. We take pride in welcoming India as our guest of honor at the 14 July parade," declared Macron in July 2023 as he greeted PM Modi with a warm embrace along the renowned Champs-Elysees avenue.
"1.4 billion Indians will always appreciate France for being a steadfast and reliable partner. May our bond continue to strengthen!" responded PM Modi to the French President.
During that visit, Prime Minister Modi was awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, France's highest distinction, by Macron, who referred to India as an "essential partner for all major challenges" of the 21st century.
In January 2024, while welcoming Macron to India's 75th Republic Day celebrations—marking France's sixth participation as the Chief Guest, the highest of any nation—PM Modi emphasized that the presence of the French President not only fortifies the relationship between both nations but also adds a remarkable chapter to their shared history of collaboration and friendship.
The profound mutual confidence and steadfast friendship between the two leaders, which form the foundation of Indo-French relations, was notably evident during this latest visit.
The day after co-chairing the AI Summit with Macron, Prime Minister Modi visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in Cadarache, located in southern France, marking the first visit by any Head of State or Government to this ambitious fusion energy initiative.
