"New World Order Emerging": PM In Address To Indians In France

Prime Minister Narendra Modi -- speaking from France -- declared today that "a new world order is emerging", one where India will "not let any opportunity pass". Pointing to India helming the G20 this year, he said the country's experience in multiple fields – from climate change, global supply chain to terrorism -- will be helpful for the world.

Addressing a charged crowd at La Seine Musicale in Paris at the end of Day One of his visit to France, PM Modi said: "Today, the world is moving towards new world order. The capability and the role of India is changing fast. At this time, India is the President of the G20 group. It's for the first time, in a country's Presidency, that more than 200 meetings are being held across the country".

"India has resolved that it will not let any opportunity slip, nor will it let a moment go to waste. I have resolved that every second of my time is for the people of the country," he added amid huge cheers from his audience.

PM Modi -- invited to be the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day celebrations -- is in France on a two-day visit that will firm up crucial defence deals and deepen the India-France strategic ties.  His visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership. His invitation for the Bastille Day indicates a new high in the bilateral relations, he said.

"I've visited France many times. However, this time, it is a special occasion to come to France," the Prime Minister said. His invite to the Bastille Day celebrations, which he would attend with his "friend", French President Emmanuel Macron, was a reflection of the "unbreakable friendship between India and France," he added.

As examples of deepening ties between the two nations, PM Modi traced India's newest footprint in the country. An agreement has been reached for using India's UPI in the European nation and "It will start from Eiffel Tower," he said, "which means Indian tourists will now be able to pay in rupees".

The Prime Minister also said it has been decided that Indian students pursuing Masters in France "will be given 5-year long term post-study visa".

"Very few people know that India and France are working on archaeological missions for a long time. It has expanded from Chandigarh to Ladakh. Digital infrastructure is another sector that strengthens the ties between India and France," he added.