How Did MP CM Meet French Ambassador Thierry Mathou to Strengthen Cultural Ties?

Bhopal, June 13 (NationPress) French Ambassador Thierry Mathou visited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav at his official residence, Samatva Bhavan, in Bhopal on Friday.

During this pivotal meeting, a significant tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized to enhance long-term collaboration between France and Madhya Pradesh in the realms of culture and tourism. This strategic agreement is designed to uplift the cultural, tourism, and educational sectors in the state, affirming Madhya Pradesh's role as India's cultural and tourism capital.

The MoU was executed by Dr Thierry Mathou, the French Ambassador to India, alongside Shiv Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture in the MP government, and Akhilesh Verma, President of Alliance Francaise de Bhopal. The agreement is set to be valid for a duration of three years, with the option for extension subject to mutual agreement.

The signing took place in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, following discussions with Dr Thierry Mathou.

Key elements of the MoU encompass the joint organization of cultural events, including art festivals, music and dance performances, exhibitions, film screenings, culinary events, and other cultural initiatives. An annually prepared Indo-French Cultural Calendar will be established.

Identifying the MoU as a vital step toward improving its cultural and tourism landscape, the Chief Minister emphasized Madhya Pradesh's eagerness to foster both cultural and commercial ties with France. CM Yadav noted the historical cordial relations between India and France, which have been further strengthened following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France.

“Madhya Pradesh is eager to cultivate not only cultural but also commercial connections with France. This historic MoU is poised to transform Madhya Pradesh into a new nucleus for cultural and tourism collaboration between India and France,” stated the Chief Minister.

Additionally, Yadav announced his upcoming visit to France for a business meeting next week, where he plans to engage with a group of industrialists to encourage investment in Madhya Pradesh. He highlighted the potential for cooperation in sectors like industrial development, entrepreneurship, and the promotion of traditional crafts.

The Chief Minister remarked, “This MoU brings us closer to our vision of establishing Madhya Pradesh not just as the cultural capital of India but also as a progressive, global hub for tourism and culture. It will provide a global platform for the state's artists and lead to a significant rise in tourist arrivals from France and Europe.”

French Ambassador Dr Thierry Mathou expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to forge this important collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. France focuses particularly on tourism, security, environment, and education. This MoU will further fortify cultural ties between our two nations, unlocking new opportunities in art, education, and tourism.”