Indian PM Narendra Modi announced that India and France had reached an agreement enabling the use of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system in France.
The Indian PM, who is on a two-day visit to France, addressed the Indian community at La Seine Musicale, a performing arts centre on an island in the river Seine, in Paris on Thursday, where he also announced the opening of a new Indian consulate in Marseille.
Glimpses from a memorable community programme in Paris. Gratitude to all those who joined us. We are very proud of the accomplishments of our diaspora. pic.twitter.com/LYgCAQCYJl
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2023
UPI Launch
Modi announced that an agreement had been reached with France to use India’s UPI in the European country. He said that it would begin in the coming days, starting from the iconic Eiffel Tower, where Indian tourists will be able to pay in rupees using their mobile apps.
UPI is India’s mobile-based fast payment system, which helps people make round-the-clock payments instantly using a Virtual Payment Address (VPA).
With this announcement, France will become the second country after Singapore to adopt UPI.
The deal follows last year’s the MoU signed by the National Payments Corporation of India’s (NPCI) international arm with France’s Lyra Network to accept UPI and Rupay.
New Consulate in Marseille
Modi also announced the opening of a new consulate in Marseille with the help of the French government.
Further, in his address, the Indian PM mentioned that Indians doing masters in France would get a five-year-long post-study work visa.
Modi also highlighted the contribution of the Indian community in France, which forms a strong foundation of the India-France partnership. He said, “India is the first country in the world where remittance from its diaspora has crossed $100 billion.”
India’s G20 Presidency, Model of Diversity
Modi highlighted the multi-faceted India-France Strategic Partnership in his address, which is completing 25 years.
The Indian PM spoke about the fast-paced development of India and asserted that while the world is moving towards a new order, India’s role and strength is also changing very quickly.
It is with great humility that I accept the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of India. I thank President @EmmanuelMacron, the French Government and people for this gesture. It shows their deep affection towards India and resolve for… pic.twitter.com/Nw7V1JVgpb
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2023
In his address, the Indian leader mentioned his country held several events nationwide during its G20 Presidency, which impressed the world.
Modi called India the “mother of democracy” and a “model of diversity,” highlighting its democratic credentials.
France’s Highest Honour, Meeting with Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron conferred Modi with France’s highest award — Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour. With this, the Indian PM joins the ranks of other prominent world leaders, like Nelson Mandela, King Charles, and Angela Merkel, who have been presented this award.
Modi has joined Macron in the Bastille Day military parade as the Guest of Honour on the second day of his visit. The Indian PM will also hold bilateral talks with Macron and conclude the visit with a banquet hosted by the French President.