PM Modi's France Visit: New Consulate Launch and Nuke Project Tour Planned
This marks the end of Prime Minister Modi's three-day visit to France, where he will inaugurate the country's second Indian consulate, after the Embassy in Paris.
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] February 12: Talking onto his arrival in Marseille, France, on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that independence fighter VD "Veer" Savarkar made a "courageous escape" attempt. On this final day of his three-day visit to France, he will officially open the country's second Indian consulate, following the Embassy in Paris. On February 13, he will travel to the United States following the conclusion of the French tour. On February 10, he was greeted by a positive response from the Indian community in Paris.
What's planned for today?
Programmes that will enhance India-French relationships, such as the opening of India's second consulate in France and a ceremony honouring forces who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars at the Mazargues War Cemetery, will take place for the final day of his three-day visit to France. Also, Modi will explore the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a global nuclear fusion partnership, with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The Relationship Between India and France During British Colonialism
The people of Marseille and French activists who "demanded that he not be handed over to British custody" were honoured by PM Modi for their help to the Indian liberty struggle.
Savarkar tried to flee the British ship Morea in July 1910 while being taken to India for trial during the British colonial era. He swam ashore after fleeing via the ship's porthole, and the French police caught him and gave him over to the British. Later, he received a life sentence in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' Cellular Jail.
What happened on Tuesday?
In Paris, PM Modi and Mr. Macron spoke at the 14th India-France CEOs Forum and the AI Action Summit. "This is more than just a business event—it's a convergence of the brightest minds from India and France," Prime Minister Modi said during his remarks. You are advancing growth with a purpose by embracing the principles of creativity, teamwork, and elevation. You are actively strengthening India and France's strategic alliance, going beyond just building relationships in the boardroom.
The AI Action Summit in Paris is a commendable effort to bring together world leaders, policy makers, thinkers, innovators and youngsters to have meaningful conversations around AI. pic.twitter.com/kSXy0FhuIT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 11, 2025
He also emphasised the strong bonds of trust and shared ideals between France and India, referring to innovation, the rule of law, and serving the public as the foundations of their partnership.
"Democratic values are not the only thing that bind France and India together. Our friendship is built on a foundation of deep trust, creativity, and service to the public. There is more to our relationship than just our two countries. We're working together to solve global issues," PM Modi continued.
On the edge of the AI Action Summit, PM Modi also met US Vice President J D Vance, his Indian-origin wife, and their two young sons. As his wife Usha looked on, the Prime Minister was spotted having one-on-one conversations with Vance.
Had a wonderful meeting with US @VP @JDVance and his family. We had a great conversation on various subjects. Delighted to join them in celebrating the joyous birthday of their son, Vivek! pic.twitter.com/gZpmt1jg5M — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 11, 2025
He also met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Paris during the Summit.
The significance of Marseille
As one of the entry sites for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), Marseille's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast makes it a vital gateway for trade between France and India.
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