'Feeling fortunate': Indian diaspora in France excited ahead of PM Modi's visit
Nice, June 13
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, members of the Indian diaspora on Saturday expressed excitement over the visit, saying they felt fortunate to have an opportunity to see him and that the respect for Indians in France has increased under his leadership.
IANS spoke to several members of the Indian community in Nice ahead of the Prime Minister's arrival.
A member of the diaspora said: "I am feeling very happy that the Indian Prime Minister is coming to Nice. It is a matter of pride for all of us."
Shubham, another member of the diaspora, said: "It has been two years since I came to Nice. I work as a chef in a restaurant. I am very happy that our Prime Minister is coming here. India's relationship with foreign countries is very good."
He added that PM Modi's visits to several countries have helped strengthen India's ties across the world.
"Because of PM Modi's foreign visits, relations between countries have improved. The respect for Indians has increased. Earlier, many people did not know much about India, but today, people know about us and want to learn more about our country. Indians here receive good facilities, including medical and educational support," he said.
"People in France treat Indians with a lot of respect. It will be the first time that I will see PM Modi in person. It is our good fortune," he told IANS.
Another member of the Indian diaspora said: "It feels great that the Prime Minister is coming here. He will address the community, and many Indians will gather to see him. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend because of work commitments, but I am very happy about his visit."
A third member said: "I feel very proud because I am from India. PM Modi is working for the country's progress. He has visited Kolkata many times, but I never got the chance to meet him."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will depart on a two-nation visit to France and Slovakia, with defence cooperation expected to feature prominently in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron as India seeks to strengthen its military capabilities amid rising strategic competition in key maritime regions.
At the invitation of French President Macron, Prime Minister Modi will undertake an official visit to France's Nice on June 13-14, and later travel to Evian and Paris from June 16-19.
PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Macron in Nice on June 14, during which the two leaders will review the full spectrum of their bilateral relationship.
From June 14-16, PM Modi will pay a state visit to Slovakia at the invitation of his Slovak counterpart, Robert Fico. This will be the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia since the country gained independence in 1993.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I work with several Indian colleagues in London, and they've all noticed a change in how Indians are perceived since Modi became PM. More respect, more opportunities. It's good to see a leader actively building bridges abroad.
Happy for the community in France! But I also hope these visits translate into tangible benefits for common people back home - better jobs, lower prices, improved infrastructure. Let's not forget the basics while celebrating global recognition.
Why is he going to Slovakia? First time in 30 years! That's a big deal. India should definitely build more ties with smaller European nations. They have great tech and engineering sectors. Good move 👍
I'm Canadian but have Indian friends who moved to France. They say the Indian community is thriving there. Modi's visits definitely help with visibility and cultural exchange. Hope the defence deals work out too - India needs strong partnerships.
The chef's comment about medical and educational support for Indians abroad is interesting. Have things really improved that much? I've heard mixed stories. But overall, it's nice to see our people feeling proud and welcomed overseas.
Modiji is like a brand ambassador for India! Wherever he goes, he sells India
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