During this year’s Republic Day parade, Emmanuel Macron, the honoured guest, revealed initiatives to boost the number of Indian students studying in France, setting an ambitious target of exceeding 30,000 students by 2030.
Expressing determination, Macron stated on X (formerly Twitter), ‘30,000 Indian students in France by 2030. It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen.’
Macron outlined France’s support, mentioning the establishment of international classes for students not fluent in French. ‘We are expanding Alliances françaises, creating new centres for French learning. International classes will enable students, regardless of their proficiency in French, to join our universities,’ he explained.
Adding to the measures, Macron emphasized simplifying visa processes for former Indian students who studied in France.
As this year’s Republic Day chief guest, Macron joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Jaipur’s renowned Sahu tea stall on January 25, engaging in conversation over a cup of tea and even utilizing UPI for payment.
During a spirited roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, both leaders received a warm welcome from the public. Macron acknowledged the crowd’s warmth by waving as they passed.
Before the roadshow, Macron and PM Modi visited Jantar Mantar in Pink City, Jaipur, where they exchanged warm greetings and explored the historic solar observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site declared in July 2010.