India, France Pledge To Take Paris Accord Forward

Referring to climate change and terrorism as two major challenges before the world, Modi said, "We cannot see the danger of climate change but we can see the horrific effects of terrorism, we can feel it. Innocent people, women, children lose their lives to terror. Every child in France understands the danger of terrorism as it has experienced it."

"Today a large part of the world is facing this problem. We discussed in detail that what could be the ways to tackle radicalisation, how to be alert to use of technology (by terror groups), how to strengthen the movement towards deradicalisation and how the world can move forward in peace and amity," he said.

Complimenting Macron on his electoral victory, Modi expressed the hope that the French leader's "energetic, visionary and young leadership" would provide strong and successful helming for not only France but also contribute to a strong European Union to maintain a balance in the global order.

Modi thanked Macron for accepting his invitation to visit India.

He also shared the French President's views on greater exchange of students programmes between the two countries and said they will strengthen it.

"The canvas of our relationship is very wide covering technology, trade, innovation, investment, education, energy, entrepreneurs, defence and communication. All these are important for us. The canvas is so wide that you can make out whether it is smart cities where the French have made investments and communication cooperation," he said.

Modi said the bilateral relations between the two countries are very deep in every sector. It is not limited just to two countries but it is helpful in the global context - "How we can move forward on the common good of the global context," he said.

In his remarks Macron said that the first and foremost of their commitment is to the climate change accord and they will continue till the end in its implementation.

"Both our countries are committed to work together in defence cooperation, maritime security and fighting terrorism on the internet too. France will stand by India in the fight against terrorism," he said.

Macron said France is also committed to taking initiatives in tapping solar energy as part of harnessing renewable energy.

He said France wants more Indian students to come to France for education and similarly French students going to India.

He said that the French government would like more exchanges between the two countries in literature and cinema.

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