Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France has been highlighted by a series of extraordinary gestures from French President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the depth of their personal and diplomatic bond.
The two leaders have demonstrated their close friendship in various ways, from their joint participation at the AI Action Summit to travelling together in a motorcade and even boarding the same plane to Marseille. These acts have showcased the strength of their bilateral relationship and mutual respect.
The warmth between the two leaders was evident from the very start, with President Macron hosting PM Modi for a dinner on the first evening of his visit. The following day, they co-hosted the AI Action Summit, further cementing their collaboration on global issues. Their shared vision for economic growth was also reflected in the India-France CEOs Forum, where they worked together to promote greater economic ties.
A particularly special gesture came when both leaders travelled in the same motorcade and flew together to Marseille. Upon arrival, President Macron hosted PM Modi for a working dinner, continuing their close collaboration.
The bond between the two will be further highlighted as President Macron accompanies PM Modi to inaugurate the Indian Consulate in Marseille. The two leaders will also visit the ITER project and the Marseille port, marking another important chapter in their growing partnership.
During his visit, PM Modi emphasized the importance of the Indian Consulate in Marseille, which will strengthen the “people-to-people” connection between India and France. Marseille’s strategic location on the Mediterranean coast makes it a key trade hub for both nations and an important entry point for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). PM Modi also expressed his intention to honor the Indian soldiers who gave their lives during the World Wars.
PM Modi’s current visit to France (February 10-12) follows a memorable state visit by President Macron to India in January 2024, where he was the Chief Guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations. That visit reaffirmed the strong ties between the two nations, with PM Modi and President Macron outlining their vision for future bilateral cooperation under Horizon 2047 and other key agreements from the July 2023 summit.
India and France have long shared a relationship built on trust and mutual respect, with both countries being strategic partners since 1998. In 2023, they celebrated 25 years of this strategic partnership, further solidifying their ties, as noted by the French Embassy in New Delhi.
