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Indian Consulate in Marseille: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated India's new consulate in Marseille on Wednesday. The event took place during PM Modi’s visit to France at the invitation of President Macron. The two leaders pressed a button to formally inaugurate the consulate, marking a significant moment in strengthening diplomatic ties between India and France.
A Grand Welcome in Marseille
The atmosphere at the inauguration was electric, with a large crowd cheering enthusiastically. Many attendees waved the national flags of both India and France, symbolizing the deep friendship between the two nations. The event highlighted the growing partnership between India and France in various sectors, including diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.
Paying Tribute at the Historic Mazaargues Cemetery
Before the inauguration, PM Modi and President Macron visited the historic Mazaargues cemetery, where they paid homage to Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I. This gesture reflected India's enduring respect for its war heroes and the shared history between India and France. The two leaders also took time to interact with members of the crowd, acknowledging the contributions of the Indian community in France.
Honoring Freedom Fighter Veer Savarkar
Earlier, upon arriving in Marseille, PM Modi paid tribute to freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The port city holds special significance in India’s independence movement as it was here that Savarkar made a daring escape attempt while being transported to British custody.
In a post on social media platform ‘X,’ PM Modi expressed his admiration for Savarkar's courage, stating, "I have reached Marseille, a city that holds special importance in India's freedom struggle. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar made a bold escape attempt." He also thanked the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who stood against Savarkar’s extradition to British rule.
A Warm Welcome from the Indian Diaspora
PM Modi received a heartfelt welcome from the Indian diaspora upon his arrival in Marseille. The Indian community in France expressed their excitement and pride in seeing the Prime Minister visit the city, further strengthening the cultural and emotional ties between the two nations.
The inauguration of the new consulate in Marseille marks a new chapter in India-France relations, reinforcing cooperation across diplomatic, economic, and cultural spheres.
