Upon landing in Marseille, PM Narendra Modi acknowledged the French city’s vital role in India’s independence movement, specifically highlighting Veer Savarkar‘s escape attempt and expressing gratitude to French activists who supported him during that challenging period.
On social media platform X, he said, “Landed in Marseille. In India’s freedom quest, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who demanded that he not be handed over to British custody. The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”
The Amrit Mahotsav government website gives insight into Savarkar history stating, “Veer Savarkar was arrested in London in 1910 in connection with the Nasik Conspiracy Case. When he was being taken by ship to India for trial, off Marseilles, Savarkar jumped into the sea and swam to the French coast, braving the firing from the ship.”
The website further states, “He was arrested at Marseilles by the British Police. The French government protested against this arrest on French soil to the Hague International Court. This brought Veer Savarkar and other Indian freedom fighters to prominence throughout the world.”
PM Modi and President Macron’s agenda for the day also includes visiting the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project. Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited Mazargues War Cemetery to honour Indian soldiers who died in the World Wars.
During his 2-day visit, Pm Modi also stressed the strong foundation of India-France relations, stating, “India and France aren’t just connected by democratic values. Deep trust, innovation, and serving the people are the pillars of our friendship. Our relationship isn’t limited to just our two nations. Together, we’re providing solutions to global problems.”
The programme also saw PM Modi co-chairing the AI Action Summit alongside President Macron in Paris, attended by global leaders, policymakers and industry experts.