Bhopal: In a significant move to deepen Indo-French relations in the field of culture and tourism, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav at his official residence, Samatva. This MoU lays the foundation for making Madhya Pradesh a new centre of Indo-French cultural exchange and tourism collaboration.
The MoU was signed by Dr Thierry Mathou, French Ambassador to India, Mr Shiv Shekhar Shukla, an IAS officer of 1994 batch and Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, and Mr Akhilesh Verma, President of Alliance Française de Bhopal. The agreement will remain valid for three years, with provisions for extension through mutual consent.
CM Yadav: “Madhya Pradesh Ready to Be a Global Cultural Capital”
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav emphasized the historic friendship between India and France, which has grown stronger following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to France. He noted that his own official visit to France is planned for next month to explore further cooperation in sectors such as industrial development, handicrafts, and entrepreneurship.
“This MoU reflects our vision of establishing Madhya Pradesh not only as the cultural capital of India but also as a progressive global destination for culture and tourism. It will give local artists an international platform and attract tourists from France and Europe,” Dr. Yadav said.
Ambassador Mathou: “New Opportunities in Culture, Education, and Tourism”
French Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou welcomed the partnership, highlighting France’s focus on tourism, education, environment, and security.
“This MoU strengthens the cultural ties between India and France and will open up new opportunities in art, education, and tourism. We are excited to collaborate with the Government of Madhya Pradesh,” he said.
Joint Cultural Initiatives and French Language Integration
Key highlights under the MoU include –
- Annual Indo-French Cultural Calendar featuring art festivals, music, dance, exhibitions, film screenings, and food festivals
- Translation of tourism promotional materials into French
- Training of tourism officials and guides in French language and culture
- Initiatives to attract French tourists and increase European footfall in the state
The collaboration is expected to boost the state’s global cultural image and help local artists, students, craftsmen, and cultural institutions access international platforms.
Dignitaries Present at the Ceremony
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials including-
- Mr Raghavendra Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Industry
- Mr. Jean-Marc Serre-Charle, Consul General of France
- Mr Shad Joynal Abedin, Political Counselor, French Embassy
- Representatives from Alliance Française de Bhopal
