Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon his arrival in Marseille, paid tribute to the city’s crucial role in India’s fight for independence, recalling the “courageous escape” of freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. He also expressed gratitude to the French activists who supported Savarkar during his time of peril.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Landed in Marseille. This city holds special significance in India’s quest for freedom. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar made a courageous attempt to escape. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists who stood up against his extradition to British authorities. The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”
Marseille holds an important place in India’s freedom history. In 1910, Veer Savarkar was arrested in London for his involvement in the Nasik Conspiracy Case. While being transported by ship to India for trial, Savarkar attempted a daring escape off the coast of Marseille, jumping into the sea and swimming toward the French shore, despite gunfire from the British ship. He was later arrested in Marseille by British authorities, but the French government protested his arrest, taking the matter to the Hague International Court. This act of defiance brought Savarkar and other Indian freedom fighters into the global spotlight.
PM Modi’s arrival in Marseille was part of a broader diplomatic visit, where he and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project—a major international collaboration in nuclear fusion research. Additionally, PM Modi will honor Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars by visiting the Mazargues War Cemetery.
Earlier, PM Modi addressed the India-France CEOs Forum in Paris, emphasizing the significance of the forum in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation. In a post on X, he stated, “The India-France CEO Forum plays a key role in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation. It’s heartening to see business leaders from both nations collaborating to create new opportunities, driving growth and investment for future generations.”
At the forum, PM Modi spoke about the broader importance of the event, saying, “This is more than just a business event—it’s a meeting of the brightest minds from India and France. You are embracing the values of innovation, collaboration, and progress, driving meaningful change. Beyond business connections, you are strengthening the strategic partnership between our two nations.”
He also highlighted the deep trust and shared values between India and France, saying, “India and France are bound not only by democratic values, but by deep trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to serving our people. Our relationship goes beyond our two countries, as we work together to solve global challenges.”
PM Modi also co-chaired the AI Action Summit with President Macron, where the week-long event culminated in a High-Level Segment attended by global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.
