PM Modi Highlights Football as a Strong Cultural Link Between India and France

Paris, June 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted football as one of the strongest cultural bonds connecting India and France, saying the sport enjoys immense popularity in both countries and serves as a symbol of the growing people-to-people ties between the two nations.

Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Paris during the final leg of his visit to France and Slovakia, the Prime Minister noted that football fever was sweeping across France as the country began its latest World Cup campaign on a winning note. Extending his best wishes to the French national team, Modi said the enthusiasm surrounding the sport was visible throughout the country.

He observed that the passion for football was not limited to France alone. According to the Prime Minister, India too has witnessed a growing fascination with the sport, with millions of fans closely following international competitions and supporting leading football nations, including France.

“Football is another strong bond between India and France,” Modi said, emphasising that the shared love for the game has added a unique cultural dimension to the relationship between the two countries.

The Prime Minister noted that sports often serve as a powerful bridge between societies and cultures, helping strengthen understanding and friendship among people. He said football has become one such platform through which Indians and French citizens connect beyond diplomacy, trade and strategic cooperation.

Modi’s remarks came as India and France continue to deepen their partnership across a wide range of sectors. This year, the relationship was elevated to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, reflecting the increasing trust and cooperation between the two countries.

The Prime Minister described the India-France partnership as a pillar of stability and confidence at a time when the world is facing significant geopolitical uncertainty and economic challenges. He said the elevation of ties reflects not only mutual respect but also a shared commitment to addressing global issues and promoting sustainable development.

According to Modi, both countries have worked closely in areas such as defence, space exploration, clean energy, technology, innovation and climate action. He said the strength of the partnership demonstrates how like-minded nations can collaborate to contribute positively to global progress.

During his interaction with the diaspora, Modi also stressed the importance of people-to-people connections in strengthening bilateral relations. He praised the Indian community in France for serving as a bridge between the two nations and contributing to the growth of the partnership.

The Prime Minister said overseas Indians have played a vital role in fostering cultural understanding, promoting economic cooperation and enhancing goodwill between India and France. Their contributions, he noted, have helped shape a vibrant and forward-looking relationship suited to the demands of the 21st century.

Members of the Indian diaspora expressed enthusiasm and pride at meeting the Prime Minister, describing the interaction as an emotional and memorable occasion. Many said Modi’s visit strengthened their connection to India despite living thousands of kilometres away from their homeland.

Earlier in the day, Modi addressed VivaTech 2026, one of Europe’s largest technology and innovation events, where he showcased India’s growing digital and innovation ecosystem. The Prime Minister had also participated in the G7 Summit in Evian, holding discussions with several world leaders on key global issues.

Before arriving in Paris, Modi posted a message on social media expressing pride in the Indian diaspora and describing the India-France partnership as vital for the progress of the world. His remarks in Paris reinforced that message, highlighting not only strategic cooperation but also the cultural and human connections that continue to bring the two countries closer together.