PM's meeting with Frances' CEOs focused on defence, infrastructure with 'Make in India' in mind: MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with France's CEOs focused on infrastructure and defence, with the idea of "Make in India" in mind.

"Prime Minister's meeting with the CEO is focused on infrastructure and defence with the idea of "Make in India" in mind. Smart cities, waste management, cleaning Ganga, high speed trains were focused on. 'Make in India' in defence being a priority for the Prime Minister was an idea that was shared," said MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin.

"The solidarity that India and France have about working together on counter-terrorism was shared. As strategic partners, we will focus on areas on strategic interests. I can confirm that we expect progress on the defense front. We have been working on these but such calls are taken by leaders of countries. The Prime Minister's interest has been to get investments to India," he added.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi addressed the august gathering at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) headquarters in Paris.

The Prime Minister, who is currently on the first leg on his three-nation nine-day tour, arrived at the UNESCO headquarters at Place de Fontenoy, Paris, earlier in the day.

Upon his arrival, he was greeted by UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova, with whom he shook hands and exchanged pleasantries.

During their meeting, Bokova had said that the Prime Minister's goals resonate with that of her organisation.

Later, he paid floral tributes at the bronze statue of spiritual leader Sri Aurobindo at the UNESCO headquarters.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was also accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Elysee Palace in Paris.

Prime Minister Modi will reach the German city of Hannover on Sunday on the second leg of his visit. He will reach Canadian capital Ottawa on Tuesday on the final leg of his visit.