President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, during his State Visit to India during which he served as the chief guest for the 75th Republic Day celebrations.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment for the bilateral cooperation and international partnership between France and India, as outlined in documents such as Horizon 2047 and others signed during PM Modi's visit to France in July 2023.
Agreements were signed to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including defense production, nuclear energy, space research, and the application of artificial intelligence for public services such as climate change, health, and agriculture. The joint statement did not specify the financial details of any agreements.
To enhance people-to-people ties the leaders announced plans to establish India’s Consulate in Marseille and French Bureau de France in Hyderabad, a Young Professional Scheme under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement and a 5-year valid Schengen Visa for Indian Masters alumni of French institutions.
In a statement on X, Macron mentioned that France aims to achieve an ambitious goal of hosting more than 30,000 students by 2030. "30,000 Indian students in France in 2030. It's a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen," he said.
30,000 Indian students in France in 2030.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024
It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen.
Here’s how: pic.twitter.com/QDpOl4ujWb
"We are developing the network of Alliances francaises, with new centers to learn French. We are creating international classes which will allow students, who do not necessarily speak French, to join our universities," Macron added.
Other key announcements included operationalisation of UPI in Paris, designation of 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation to foster innovation among others.
The two leaders also welcomed the historic agreement between Airbus and Tata Advanced System to begin the assembly of civilian helicopters in India. They will become the first private sector companies to produce helicopters in India, in line with the strategy of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login