Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, 18 June told members of the Indian diaspora in Paris that football represents one of the most powerful cultural bonds linking India and France, with the passion for the sport palpably visible in both nations. His remarks came during the final leg of a visit that also took him to Slovakia.

Football Fever and the Diaspora Address

Addressing the Indian community gathered in Paris, Modi extended his best wishes to the French national football team, which had opened its World Cup campaign with a commanding victory. He observed that football fever had gripped every corner of France, and that India too was witnessing a surge in enthusiasm for the game, with large numbers of French-team supporters spread across the country.

Modi noted that this shared sporting passion adds a meaningful cultural layer to the India–France relationship — one that was formally elevated this year to a Special Global Strategic Partnership.

India–France Partnership: A Pillar of Stability

Against the backdrop of what Modi described as a period of global uncertainty and disruption, he characterised the bilateral partnership as a 'strong pillar of trust, stability and cooperation.' He underlined that the elevation to a Special Global Strategic Partnership reflects the depth of mutual confidence and a shared vision for global progress.

Modi also highlighted the Indian diaspora's role as bridge-builders, crediting the community with nurturing ties between the two countries and helping shape a partnership fit for the 21st century. Members of the diaspora described the meeting as proud and memorable, saying his presence made them feel connected to their homeland despite being thousands of miles away.

Modi's Post on X

Taking to his official account on X, Modi wrote: 'Reached Paris a short while ago to a warm welcome by the Indian diaspora. I am proud of their efforts in bringing India and France closer. The India–France partnership is vital for the progress of our planet.'

Broader Engagements in France

The diaspora address was one of several high-profile engagements during Modi's France visit. Earlier on Thursday, he addressed VivaTech 2026, one of Europe's largest technology and innovation conferences. He also attended the G7 Summit in Evian and held bilateral meetings with multiple world leaders on the sidelines.

With the India–France relationship now anchored in a Special Global Strategic Partnership and people-to-people ties gaining fresh momentum through sport and diaspora diplomacy, both sides are expected to deepen cooperation across technology, defence, and culture in the months ahead.