Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X at 4:18 AM (India time) on Wednesday, saying, 'President Macron and I reached Marseille a short while ago.' This post highlighted the strong bond between the two leaders and marked the beginning of PM Modi’s visit to France.
Le président Macron et moi-même sommes arrivés à Marseille il y a peu. Cette visite sera marquée par d'importants programmes visant à renforcer les liens entre l'Inde et la France. Le consulat indien qui est en train d'être inauguré permettra d'approfondir les liens… pic.twitter.com/jX8c2qmTr6
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 11, 2025
Marseille’s Significance in BJP Politics
Marseille holds special importance for PM Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is the city where VD Savarkar, a prominent freedom fighter, attempted to escape British captivity. In fact, Savarkar’s arrest by French authorities and his subsequent handover to the British sparked a legal debate about asylum and extradition. Consequently, Modi mentioned Savarkar in his posts, emphasizing the city’s role in India’s struggle for freedom.
A Warm Welcome from President Macron
PM Modi’s visit to France was marked by a warm reception from President Macron. On the first day of the visit, February 10, Macron hosted a dinner for PM Modi. The following day, they co-hosted the AI Action Summit, continuing their collaboration. Later, they co-hosted the India-France CEOs Forum, focusing on their shared vision for economic ties between the two nations.
Traveling Together: A Symbol of Friendship
In a rare and extraordinary gesture, Modi and Macron traveled together in a joint motorcade and on the same plane to Marseille. Upon their arrival, President Macron hosted PM Modi for a working dinner, further emphasizing the close relationship between the two leaders.
Inauguration and Key Visits in Marseille
PM Modi’s schedule in Marseille was filled with important engagements. He and Macron inaugurated the Indian Consulate, strengthening diplomatic ties. Moreover, they visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a global nuclear fusion project. Additionally, they toured the Marseille port together. Such a level of cooperation between world leaders is rare and highlights the strong partnership between India and France.
Paying Tribute to Savarkar
Upon arriving in Marseille, PM Modi took a moment to pay tribute to VD Savarkar for his brave escape attempt in the city. He posted on X, “Landed in Marseille. In India’s quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape.” Furthermore, he thanked the people of Marseille and the French activists who supported Savarkar during that time. Modi also added, “The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”
Landed in Marseille. 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…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 11, 2025
A Warm Welcome from the Indian Diaspora
The Indian community in Marseille gave PM Modi a warm and enthusiastic welcome. In his early Wednesday post, he shared, “President Macron and I reached Marseille a short while ago. This visit will witness important programmes aimed at further connecting India and France. The Indian consulate which is being inaugurated will deepen people-to-people linkages. I will also pay homage to the Indian soldiers martyred in [the] First and Second World Wars.”
Savarkar’s Escape and Its Lasting Impact
In 1910, Savarkar made a daring escape attempt while being transported on the British ship Morea. He managed to slip through a porthole, swim to shore, and escape. However, he was soon caught by the French authorities and handed back to the British. This incident triggered a diplomatic row, and Savarkar was sentenced to life imprisonment at the Cellular Jail in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Modi’s Sixth Visit to France
This visit marks PM Modi’s sixth trip to France. After his time in France, he will continue his two-nation tour and travel to the United States.
Overall, PM Modi’s visit to France further strengthened the ties between the two nations. He not only enhanced diplomatic and economic relations but also paid tribute to a significant figure in India’s freedom movement, demonstrating the deep historical and cultural connections between India and France.