Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in France on Saturday on the last leg of his four-nation tour, after wrapping up his Russia visit. The Indian Prime Minister is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron, and will likely discuss key issues like climate change, terrorism, and India's NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) membership bid with the newly-elected French leader.
During his Russia visit, Modi held talks with President Vladimir Putin, and attended an international economic forum meet. The Indian Prime Minister also visited Germany and Spain during this Europe visit, and held talks with the leaders there.
Modi announced his arrival in France in a tweet, saying that his visit is "vital to enhance ties" with the European nation.
"Reached France for a vital visit to enhance ties with one of our most important strategic partners," Prime Minister Modi tweeted after landing in the country.
Reached France for a vital visit to enhance ties with one of our most important strategic partners. pic.twitter.com/m402KMDZc7
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 2, 2017
"France is one of our most important strategic partners. I look forward to meeting President Macron and have discussions on issues of mutual interest," Modi had said ahead of his visit.
"I would be exchanging views with the French President on important global issues including UN Security Council reforms and India's permanent membership of the UN Security Council, India's membership of the various multilateral export control regimes, counter-terrorism cooperation, collaboration on climate change and International Solar Alliance," he had said.
France is India's 9th largest investment partner and a key ally in its development initiatives in the area of defence, space, nuclear and renewable energy, urban development and railways.
"I am committed to substantially strengthening and advancing our multi-faceted partnership with France," Modi had said.
Modi had also called President Macron to congratulate him on his election win against Marine Le Pen last month. He had said that he looked forward to work with Macron to deepen the bilateral ties between the countries.
