Synopsis
During his visit to Marseille, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by French President Emmanuel Macron, inaugurated a new Indian consulate, highlighting the deepening ties between India and France. This initiative aims to enhance people-to-people connections and honor the contributions of Indian soldiers in the World Wars.Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of the new Indian consulate in Marseille.
- Deepening connections between India and France.
- Tribute to Indian soldiers at Mazargues War Cemetery.
- Focus on AI initiatives and investments in skilling.
- Call for business partnerships between India and France.
Paris, Feb 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Marseille with French President Emmanuel Macron following the inaugural address of the AI Action Summit in Paris. He emphasized that the establishment of an Indian consulate here will further enhance the ties between India and France as well as the profound connection between the citizens of both nations.
In a message on the social media platform X, PM Modi stated, "President Macron and I reached Marseille a short while ago. This visit will witness important programmes aimed at further connecting India and France. The Indian consulate which is being inaugurated will deepen people-to-people linkages. I will also pay homage to the Indian soldiers martyred in the First and Second World Wars."
PM Modi has arrived in Marseille to inaugurate the new Consulate General of India alongside President Macron on Wednesday. The leaders will also visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to pay tribute to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.
Furthermore, they plan to tour the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a global nuclear fusion initiative, in Cadarache.
Earlier, on Tuesday evening, PM Modi landed in Marseille together with French President Macron after co-chairing the AI Action Summit earlier that day.
PM Modi expressed gratitude to the people of Marseille for their involvement in Veer Savarkar's escape during the colonial era.
He shared on X, "In India's quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who demanded that he not be handed over to British custody. The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!"
In his address, PM Modi urged for investment in skilling and reskilling individuals for an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven future. He also emphasized that governance should ensure access for everyone, especially in the Global South.
France confirmed that India will host the next AI summit after PM Modi expressed interest. India also assured France of its complete support for AI initiatives.
The Prime Minister also addressed the India-France CEOS Forum in Paris, encouraging partnerships between businesses in both countries.
Highlighting advancements in manufacturing, infrastructure, and production across various sectors, Modi called for businesses to engage in the Indian market as the nation aims for a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.
