On the final day of his three-day visit to France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, visited the historic Mazargues Cemetery in Marseille on Wednesday. The leaders paid homage to Indian soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II, many of whom are laid to rest there.
Remembering Veer Savarkar
PM Modi highlighted Marseille’s historical significance for India’s freedom struggle, recalling Veer Savarkar’s daring escape attempt from British custody in 1910. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote,
“In India’s quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who demanded that he not be handed over to British custody. The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”
Savarkar had tried to flee by jumping from the HMS Morea into the sea and swimming ashore, but he was captured by French authorities and later returned to British officials.
Strengthening India-France Ties
During his visit, PM Modi inaugurated the Indian consulate in Marseille, emphasizing that it would further strengthen bilateral relations. He described it as a step toward enhancing people-to-people connections between India and France.
PM Modi was warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Marseille. Speaking to ANI, an Indian resident, Priyanka Sharma, shared her excitement:
“We have been staying here for the past four years… I met PM Modi now… he was very happy to meet us, and we also felt really happy.”
India’s Role in the ITER Project
In another key engagement, PM Modi and President Macron visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in Cadarache, southern France. India has committed ₹17,500 crore, contributing 10% of the project’s total cost. India has also played a crucial role in the project by providing the world’s largest refrigerator, which houses the unique reactor.
‘Ties Touched New Heights’
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri revealed that PM Modi and President Macron traveled to Marseille together on the French presidential aircraft, calling it an “exceptional gesture” that showcased the deep trust and friendship between the two leaders.
“The Prime Minister and the President held discussions on board the aircraft. You could say that India-France relations touched new heights, literally,” Misri said.
Their discussions in Marseille covered defense, space, civil nuclear cooperation, health, and people-to-people exchanges. The two countries have also adopted a joint declaration on artificial intelligence and launched the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 logo.
PM Modi Departs for the US
After concluding his France visit, PM Modi departed for the United States on Wednesday evening (India time). During his two-day visit, he is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump, who recently began his second term on January 20.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, “The Prime Minister’s visit to the United States will give further direction and momentum to this important partnership. We expect a joint statement to be adopted at the end of the visit.”
Sources By Agencies
