PM Modi, Macron Visit Villa Kerylos In Nice Ahead Of Bilateral Talks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron visited Villa Kerlyos in Nice, France, on Sunday, where the two leaders were seen sharing a light-hearted conversation while exploring the historic site.

The visit came shortly after PM Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated the ‘Bharat Innovates’ event in Nice, which brought together startups, investors, venture capital funds and technology leaders from India, France and other countries.

Addressing the event, PM Modi said India’s reform momentum would continue. He also emphasised the country’s growing stature as a global innovation hub.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. He invited innovators worldwide to collaborate with India in developing technological solutions to global challenges.

“The number of startups in India will continue to grow as the country remains committed to reforms and innovation-driven development,” the Prime Minister stated.

PM Modi said India has built a strong innovation ecosystem over the past 11–12 years. He attributed the growth to initiatives such as Startup India, policy support, incubation networks and increased patent filings.

“Over the past 11–12 years, India has built a strong ecosystem for innovation. From patent filings to incubation networks, and from Startup India to policy support, this entire journey has progressed forward in mission mode,” Prime Minister Modi noted.

French President Macron described PM Modi’s presence at the event as a matter of great honour for France. He also congratulated the Prime Minister on completing 12 years as India’s leader.

President Macron further commended PM Modi’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.

Ahead of the event, PM Modi met select investors and venture capital leaders from India, France and several other countries.

Later in the day, the Prime Minister will likely hold bilateral talks with President Macron in Nice. The discussions will likely cover the full spectrum of the India-France partnership.

PM Modi arrived in Nice on Saturday on an official visit at the invitation of President Macron. French Minister for Higher Education, Research and Space Philippe Baptiste, Secretary General of the Alpes-Maritimes Prefecture Patrick Amoussou-Adeble, French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou, Nice Mayor Eric Ciotti, and India’s Ambassador to France Sanjeev Singla welcomed him at the airport.

Also Read: Startup Growth Will Continue As India Stays Committed To Reforms: PM Modi