Paris, June 19 (UNI) India and France on Tuesday inked a Letter of Intent on cooperation in the field of conservation of pre-historic ornate caves and rock shelters.
The document was signed during the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to France.
"This document which was signed between the Ministry of Culture of India and the Ministry of Culture of France will aid conservation efforts at the Bhimbetka caves (in Madhya Pradesh) and the caves of Lascaux and Chauvet in France," an MEA statement said here.
During her two-day visit to France, Ms Swaraj met her counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe & Foreign Affairs of France on Monday wherein they reviewed the wide gamut of bilateral relations as well as exchanged views on contemporary matters of regional/international interest.
This visit by Ms Swaraj is happening has its own significance as it is the first major visit from India to France since the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India in March 2018.
The two sides have reaffirmed the strong mutual ties and the expanding convergences which underpin the bilateral Strategic Partnership, now in its 20th year. She also called on the French President on Monday and conveyed the personal greetings of the President and Prime Minister of India.
​In her other engagements in Paris, Ms Swaraj was the Chief Guest at a ceremony held to name the Indian Culture Centre in the memory of Swami Vivekananda.
The External Affairs Minister visited the India House, Maison de l’Inde which is a hostel for Indian students in the University City of Paris.
The India House is celebrating its 50th anniversary year in 2018. She also addressed the residents of the India House.
An Indian community reception was held in honour of the Minister at the Embassy of India where she addressed the members of community and emphasized on the importance attached by India on the links with the Indian diaspora.
She also handed over certificates of appreciation to Indian community organization and individuals who have contributed to the Swacch Bharat Kosh.
The Minister announced that India will construct an Indian Armed Forces Memorial in Villiers Guislain, France, to honour the valour and sacrifice of the thousands of Indian soldiers, sailors and airmen who fought for peace in First World War.
Ms Swaraj released a publication ‘States of India’ prepared by Embassy of India which is meant for increasing awareness of the business climate and invest potential of various states of India and would prove to be a handy guide for French investors, chamber of commerce and others.
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