In a historic milestone for India-France relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated the Consulate General of India in Marseille on February 12, 2025. The event, held in the heart of Marseille, was a momentous occasion marking India’s expanding diplomatic presence in France.
The establishment of the Consulate General in Marseille, the second-most populous city in France, is aimed at enhancing consular services, fostering deeper economic ties, and strengthening cultural and people-to-people connections between India and Southern France.
A Special Gesture Strengthening India-France Ties
The presence of President Macron at the inauguration underscored the close strategic partnership and personal rapport between the two leaders. Prime Minister Modi expressed deep appreciation for this gesture, emphasizing how India and France have continuously strengthened their diplomatic, economic, and cultural bonds over the past 25 years.
Warm Reception by the Indian Diaspora
Both leaders were greeted with enthusiastic applause from members of the Indian diaspora, who had gathered to witness the historic inauguration. The Indian community in Southern France, comprising professionals, students, and business leaders, welcomed the opening of the Consulate, which will now provide enhanced support for visas, passports, and consular assistance.
Expanding India’s Diplomatic Footprint in France
The decision to establish the Consulate General of India in Marseille was initially announced in July 2023 during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France. The new diplomatic office will have jurisdiction over four key French administrative regions, namely:
✔ Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
✔ Corsica
✔ Occitanie
✔ Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
These regions play a crucial role in France’s economy, particularly in trade, industry, energy, maritime affairs, and luxury tourism. The establishment of the Consulate will further deepen India’s engagement in these sectors and provide greater diplomatic and economic outreach in Southern France.
Strengthening the India-France Strategic Partnership
The inauguration of the Consulate General in Marseille marks another significant step in the India-France Strategic Partnership, which has expanded across diverse sectors, including defense, space, AI, civil nuclear energy, and climate action.
The new diplomatic mission will:
✅ Enhance economic collaboration by facilitating trade and investment opportunities between Indian and French businesses in Southern France
✅ Support Indian nationals residing in the region with consular services, visa applications, and emergency assistance
✅ Promote cultural and educational exchanges through events, collaborations, and student engagement programs
✅ Strengthen maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, as Marseille serves as a key port city for international trade and security
A New Chapter in India-France Relations
With the opening of the Consulate General in Marseille, India and France reaffirm their shared commitment to diplomatic expansion, people-centric policies, and global cooperation. Prime Minister Modi invited President Macron to visit India, further reinforcing bilateral engagement in trade, technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
The event concluded with a cultural performance showcasing India’s diverse heritage, symbolizing the growing warmth and dynamism in Indo-French relations.