PM Modi: India-France Ties at New Heights as Paris Temple Opens
PM Modi virtually inaugurated the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Paris, saying India-France relations have reached new heights, built on cultural and strategic ties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the relationship between India and France has reached "new heights," describing the partnership as special due to its foundation in shared cultural and political history. He was speaking virtually at the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Paris.
Modi noted that the temple, with stones carved in India and assembled in France, represents a blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern engineering. He expressed confidence that the structure would stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and opportunity between the two nations.
The Prime Minister highlighted ongoing collaboration with French President Emmanuel Macron across sectors including technology, artificial intelligence, defence, space, and climate action. He also referenced the celebration of 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation.
Drawing on historical connections, Modi pointed to the sacrifice of Indian soldiers in France and the role of French scholars in popularising Sanskrit. He also mentioned the writings of Romain Rolland and the spiritual journeys of figures like 'The Mother' and Srila Prabhupada as bridges between the societies.
Modi added that yoga has become a significant link for people-to-people connections, citing images from the Eiffel Tower on International Yoga Day as evidence of its popularity. He said the new temple will serve as a hub for service projects and will enrich France's diversity while energising bilateral cultural relations.