On February 12, 2025, India and France reaffirmed their commitment to the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) project. This initiative aims to create a network connecting India to Europe via land and sea routes.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, he attended the Paris AI Action Summit and met with President Emmanuel Macron. Together, they discussed the importance of IMEC, which was first introduced at the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023. The project is crucial for enhancing trade and cooperation between India and Europe, especially considering recent challenges in the region.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri shared updates with the media, highlighting that after the summit, Modi traveled to Marseille on the French presidential aircraft. Macron emphasized that Marseille would act as a key entry point for the European market, playing a vital role in the IMEC initiative.
The leaders also agreed to collaborate on developing nuclear reactors. They signed a letter of intent for the production of small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs). Modi and Macron noted that nuclear energy would be crucial for their energy strategies.
Additionally, they inaugurated the new Indian Consulate General in Marseille on February 12. Modi reflected on historical ties between India and Marseille, referencing the presence of Indian soldiers during World War I. He expressed hope that the consulate would strengthen cultural and economic links between the two nations.
Marseille’s strategic location in the Mediterranean is expected to support connectivity and sustainable growth, aiding access to clean energy.
During the flight from Paris to Marseille, Modi and Macron also discussed future collaborations in areas like space, health, and civil nuclear cooperation. They agreed that the next global summit on AI would take place in India.
The two leaders expressed optimism about their continued partnership and emphasized the importance of their trilateral relationships, particularly with the United Arab Emirates and Australia, focusing on innovation and renewable energy.
Modi and Macron paid tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery and visited the ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) facility in Cadarache. This emphasizes their shared commitment to peaceful and sustainable energy initiatives.
As India and France deepen their ties, the focus remains on shared goals and addressing regional challenges while fostering economic and cultural connections.
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