PM Modi Thanks People of Marseille for Role in Veer Savarkar’s Escape

After co-chairing the AI Action Summit in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Marseille on Tuesday (local time) for a series of engagements in the city.

PM Modi expressed gratitude to the people of Marseille for their role in Veer Savarkar’s escape during colonial rule.

In a post on social media platform X, he wrote, “In India’s quest for freedom, 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!”

According to the government website amritmahotsav.nic.in, “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. He was arrested at Marseilles by the British police. The French government protested against this arrest on French soil at the Hague International Court. This brought Veer Savarkar and other Indian freedom fighters to prominence throughout the world.”

As part of their engagements, PM Modi and President Macron will visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in Cadarache, a significant international collaboration in nuclear fusion research.

In a tribute to historical ties, the Prime Minister will also visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to honor Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed the CEOs Forum in Paris, highlighting the importance of Indo-French economic collaboration.

In a post on X, he wrote, “The India-France CEO Forum plays a key role in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation. It is gladdening to see business leaders from both nations collaborate and create new opportunities across key sectors. This drives growth, investment, and ensures a better future for the coming generations.”

Speaking at the event, PM Modi stated, “This is more than just a business event—it’s a convergence of the brightest minds from India and France. You are embracing the mantra of innovation, collaboration, and elevation, driving progress with purpose. Beyond forging boardroom connections, you are actively reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and France.”

He also emphasized the deep trust and shared values between India and France, citing democratic principles, innovation, and service to people as the pillars of their friendship.

“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,” PM Modi added.

Meanwhile, PM Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit with President Macron in Paris, where he called for investment in skilling and reskilling people for an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven future. He asserted that governance should ensure accessibility for all, especially in the Global South.

France confirmed that India will be hosting the next AI summit after PM Modi expressed interest, and India assured France of full support for its AI initiatives.

Highlighting progress in manufacturing, infrastructure, and production across multiple sectors, PM Modi urged businesses to enter the Indian market as the country works towards its vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

The week-long summit culminated in a high-level segment attended by global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.