President Emmanuel Macron Announcement
In a significant announcement during the Republic Day celebrations, French President Emmanuel Macron, the chief guest at the event, revealed a major initiative to strengthen educational ties between India and France. On Friday, January 26th, he stated that as a significant step to enhance educational relations between both countries, France aims to welcome 30,000 Indian students to its universities by 2030. Macron shared this ambitious goal through a post on the Social Media Forum X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing its role in strengthening the bonds between France and India. He referred to India as a “key partner” in the Indo-Pacific region.
Macron, while sharing more details, stated, “We are developing the Alliance Française network with new centers for learning French. We are creating international classes to assist students who may not necessarily speak French but aspire to study in our universities.”
Simplified Visa Process for Indian Students
The French President also declared that the visa process for Indian students studying in France will be streamlined, making it easier for them to return. This announcement comes as France had already set a goal to attract 20,000 Indian students for studies by 2025. Macron has now extended the target, revealing plans for the year 2030.
30,000 Indian students in France in 2030.
It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen.
Here’s how: pic.twitter.com/QDpOl4ujWb
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024
France’s Prior Initiatives for Indian Students
To facilitate education for Indian students in France, the French government had already taken steps. In 2018, they launched the “Campus France” program, providing information and assistance to Indian students interested in studying in France. Since its inception, the number of Indian students studying in France has increased by 20 percent.
India-France Talks on Defense and Industrial Partnership
India and France have reached an agreement on a defense and industrial partnership roadmap. This partnership will focus on the development and streamlined production of major defense hardware and platforms, with collaborations extending to various technical areas such as space, land warfare, cyber, and artificial intelligence.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, announcing the outcomes of the talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in Jaipur last night, revealed that Tata and Airbus Helicopters have partnered to produce the H125 helicopter with significant indigenous components.
India-France Collaboration in Various Fields
Vinay Kwatra, the Foreign Secretary, disclosed during a press conference on Friday, January 26th, that India and France would enhance cooperation in areas such as robotics, autonomous vehicles, and cyber defense under the India-France defense and industrial roadmap. He mentioned the signing of a memorandum of understanding between NewSpace India Limited and France’s Arianespace for satellite launches.
Key Discussions Between Modi and Macron
Kwatra stated that Prime Minister Modi and President Macron discussed various dimensions, including the conflict in Gaza, terrorism, and humanitarian aspects. They also deliberated on the emerging security situation in the Red Sea, potential conflicts, and actual incidents.
Macron initiated his two-day visit to India with a tour of Jaipur on Thursday, along with participating in the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest. Notably, last year, Prime Minister Modi was honored as a distinguished guest at the Bastille Day parade in Paris on July 14. Prior to that, President Macron visited India in September to participate in the G20 Summit.
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