14-07-2023 : On his two-day visit to France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with the highest honour of France, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, by French President Emmanuel Macron. The official statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the conferment of this prestigious award. The award ceremony took place at the Elysee Palace in Paris, where Modi was accorded a red-carpet welcome upon his arrival.
The Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour is a significant recognition in France and holds great historical and cultural importance. It is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to France or have displayed outstanding achievements in their respective fields. The conferment of this honor upon Prime Minister Modi highlights the strong bilateral ties between India and France.
As a part of the visit, Prime Minister Modi will also be participating in the French National Day celebrations on Friday, where he will be the Guest of Honour alongside President Macron. This invitation further underscores the close relationship and cooperation between the two nations.
The MEA spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, shared photographs from the award ceremony on Twitter, expressing gratitude for the gesture and emphasizing the spirit of partnership between India and France. The statement from the MEA also conveyed Prime Minister Modi’s appreciation to President Macron for bestowing this esteemed honor on behalf of the people of India.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi attended a private dinner hosted by President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron at the Elysee Palace. This informal setting provided an opportunity for the leaders to engage in discussions and further strengthen the ties between India and France.
In addition, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in France at the La Seine Musicale, a renowned performing arts center. In his speech, he highlighted India’s rapid development and its evolving role in the changing global order. He commended the support extended by France to India and emphasized the strong bond that exists between the two countries, which are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their strategic partnership.
Prime Minister Modi also urged members of the Indian diaspora to consider investing in India, citing the country’s increasing attractiveness as an investment destination. He mentioned that global experts are recognizing India’s potential, and the nation is making significant progress in various sectors.
Moreover, the visit included the announcement of an agreement for the use of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in France. This agreement opens up a substantial new market for Indian innovation in cashless instant payment solutions and further strengthens the economic cooperation between India and France.