Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, June 3, met newly-elected French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris, the official residence of the president of France. The prime minister is on the last leg of his four-nation tour to Germany, Spain, Russia and France. He arrived in France after holding talks with President Vladimir Putin in Russia.
Besides discussing issues of international and mutual interests, both Modi and Macron discussed ways to boost bilateral strategic ties, counter terrorism and climate change and improve trade and the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015. They issued a joint statement from the Elysee Palace where French President Macron confirmed that he would be visiting India towards the end of the year.
At the joint press conference, PM Modi said that both India and France enjoy deep-rooted ties and have been working together since a long time. He said that both leaders "want to give a boost to India-France ties" in all sectors including "trade and technology, innovation and investment, energy, education and enterprise."
Continue fight against terrorism
Both leaders also committed to continue their fight against terrorism. PM Modi said that terrorism is one of the biggest challenges the world is facing today. "Every child of France understands the threat of terrorism. We discussed ways to protect ourselves, resist radicalisation, and use technology to combat terrorism," he said.
President Macron also reiterated his commitment to fight the menace of terrorism and assured PM Modi of France's support to India in its fight against the menace. "France fully supports India's fight against terrorism" he said. He added that he would also like "India to stand behind France against terrorism."
Paris Climate Agreement
Both Modi and Macron said that they remain committed to their fight against climate change and, therefore, they would remain a part of the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015. This statement comes after US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday, June 1, that the United States was pulling out of the climate accord as it was "unfair" to the country, "its businesses, its workers, its people, its taxpayers."
Describing terrorism and climate change as the two biggest threats that the world faces today, PM Modi said: "Paris Agreement is a shared legacy of the world. It will benefit the future generations as well. It reflects our duty towards protecting the Earth and our natural resources. It is our responsibility to protect Mother Earth. For Indians, protecting the environment is an article of faith. For centuries we have learnt... that we have to learn to coexist with nature... That's why are fully committed to the environment."
President Macron, who had lashed out at Trump for pulling out of the climate deal, also said: "France remains committed to fighting climate change and will continue to do the same not only within the framework of Paris accord but also in actions that we are implementing."
International Solar Alliance
PM Modi praised Macron for the positivity he showed towards the International Solar Alliance.
"The International Solar Alliance was formed here. And I am very happy to see France is really keen to take it forward," Modi said at the joint press meet.
Macron, on his part, said that he "will be travelling to India by end of the year and we will convene a meeting of the world solar alliance."
"I hope that the new energetic, visionary, young leadership of France gives new strength to the EU. I am happy that Mr President has accepted my invitation to visit India. We are eager to host him. We will fight together against the dangers in front of humanity," Modi added.
Honouring Indian soldiers who fought for France
Modi added that both Macron and he "want to improve the cultural relations between India and France."
"Several Indians fought in the first two world wars for world peace... We are going to honour 1.5 lakh Indian soldiers who sacrificed their life in the two world wars. This is a huge gesture for the souls of those Indian brave hearts," the prime minister said.
Macron, on his part, said, "Many Indian soldiers died for our country, for its freedom. It's an evidence of the strong bond between our countries."
President Macron also said that he would like "more Indian students to come to France." He also expressed his desire to "increase cooperation" between both countries when it came to "culture and cinema".
PM Modi also paid tribute at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris after which he departed for Delhi from the Orly Airport in Paris.
