A special friendship marked by extraordinary gestures

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Marseille on Tuesday night, marking the beginning of an important leg of his France visit. His first message on social media was a tribute to Veer Savarkar, who had attempted a daring escape from the city during India’s freedom struggle. "In India's quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape," PM Modi posted on X. (MEA photo)

Soon after his arrival, PM Modi received a heartfelt welcome from members of the Indian community in Marseille. The diaspora gathered to greet him with cheers, handshakes, and selfies. (PTI photo)

PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron visited the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille to honour the Indian soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives during the First and Second World Wars. In a solemn ceremony, Modi laid a wreath at the Indian Memorial. (MEA photo)

PM Modi bowed with folded hands to honour the soldiers who fought alongside French forces in the Great War. The serene atmosphere was further heightened by a band playing on the lawns, making the event deeply poignant.

As part of his Marseille visit, PM Modi inaugurated a new Indian consulate in the city. He described it as a step towards enhancing people-to-people connections between India and France. "This consulate will deepen the linkages between our citizens and bring our two nations closer," PM Modi said. (MEA photo)

Later in the day, PM Modi and President Macron held talks in Marseille, covering a wide range of topics. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties, addressing global and regional challenges, and exploring new areas of collaboration. The meeting was seen as an opportunity to deepen the partnership between the two nations. (PTI photo)