For two decades, we have been on the path of strategic partnership. Today France and India are each other’s trusted partners. During our difficulties, we have understood and supported each other’s views. Friends,
Today, President Macron and I discussed all the aspects of our relationship in detail. It will be 75 years of India’s independence in the year 2022, till then we have set many goals for the New India. Our main objective is to make India a $ 5 trillion economy. India’s requirements for development present a golden opportunity for the French enterprises. We look forward to new initiatives in skill development, civil aviation, IT, space and many other areas to enhance our economic cooperation. Defense Cooperation is a strong pillar of our relationship. I am happy that we are making good progress on various projects. The first of the 36 Rafael aircrafts will be delivered to India next month. We will increase cooperation in technology and co-production. France is the first country with which we have signed the New Generation Civil Nuclear Agreement. We have urged our companies to rapidly move forward on the Jaitapur project and also keep in mind the price of electricity. It is also a matter of great pleasure that tourism is increasing from both sides. About 2.5 lakh French tourists and 7 lakh Indian tourists visit each other’s country every year. The exchange of students in the field of higher education should be particularly increased. The next edition of the Indian cultural festival “Namaste France” will be held throughout France during 2021-2022. I hope that this festival will further deepen the interest of the people of France in the diverse culture of India. I know that Yoga is very popular in France. I hope that many more of my friends in France adopt it as a way of healthy lifestyle.
I had pointed out the importance of cooperation between India and France for Global Challenges. Both our countries have to constantly face terrorism and radicalization. We have received valuable French support and cooperation in combating cross-border terrorism. We thank President Macron for this. We have intended to broaden cooperation on security and counter-terrorism. We have also decided to further strengthen our growing cooperation in maritime and cyber security. I am pleased that we have agreed on a new roadmap on cyber security and digital technology. Our operational cooperation in the Indian Ocean region is growing rapidly. This cooperation will be important in ensuring security and progress for all in the region.”
Excerpts of Statement by Prime Minister during his visit to France
Author Profile
- India Writes Network (www.indiawrites.org) is an emerging think tank and a media-publishing company focused on international affairs & the India Story. Centre for Global India Insights is the research arm of India Writes Network. To subscribe to India and the World, write to editor@indiawrites.org. A venture of TGII Media Private Limited, a leading media, publishing and consultancy company, IWN has carved a niche for balanced and exhaustive reporting and analysis of international affairs. Eminent personalities, politicians, diplomats, authors, strategy gurus and news-makers have contributed to India Writes Network, as also “India and the World,” a magazine focused on global affairs.
Latest entries
DiplomacyDecember 14, 2024India, Iran and Armenia Advance Connectivity Push with Trilateral Talks in New Delhi- DiplomacyDecember 13, 2024Brazil’s G20 Presidency will focus on tangible results on UNSC reforms, climate action
- DiplomacyDecember 6, 2024India and Vietnam Strengthen Security Ties at 3rd Deputy Ministerial-Level Dialogue
- India and the WorldDecember 6, 2024India and UK Revitalize Strategic Ties at 2+2 Dialogue in New Delhi
