MoU with France to Provide Global Platform for MP’s Culture : CM Dr. Yadav

A significant tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the Chief Minister’s residence, Samatva, in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav to strengthen long-term cooperation between France and Madhya Pradesh in the fields of culture and tourism. This historic MoU is set to transform Madhya Pradesh into a new centre of cultural and tourism collaboration between India and France. The MoU was signed by Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India; Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture; and Shri Akhilesh Verma, President of Alliance Française de Bhopal. The agreement will remain valid for three years and can be extended with mutual consent.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that India and France have always shared cordial relations, which have deepened further following Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to France. He added that Madhya Pradesh is keen to build not only cultural but also commercial ties with France. He also mentioned his upcoming visit to France next month.

CM Dr. Yadav highlighted the potential for mutual cooperation in areas such as industrial development, entrepreneurship, and promotion of traditional crafts. He said, “This MoU brings us closer to our vision of establishing Madhya Pradesh not only as the cultural capital of India but also as a progressive, global hub for tourism and culture. It will provide a global platform to the state’s artists and lead to a significant increase in tourist arrivals from France and Europe”.

French Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou expressed happiness over the partnership and remarked, “We are delighted to establish this important collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. France focuses particularly on tourism, security, environment, and education. This MoU will further strengthen cultural ties between the two countries, opening new opportunities in art, education, and tourism”.

Key features of the MoU include joint organisation of cultural events such as art festivals, music and dance performances, exhibitions, film screenings, culinary events, and other cultural programs. A dedicated Indo-French Cultural Calendar will be prepared annually.
Tourism promotional materials of the state will be translated into French, and special initiatives will be undertaken to attract French tourists. Officials and guides in the tourism sector will also receive training in French language and culture. This agreement will significantly boost the state’s cultural strategy and provide a global platform to local artists, craftsmen, students, and cultural organisations, helping establish Madhya Pradesh’s unique identity on the international stage.

Principal Secretary, Industries, Shri Raghvendra Kumar Singh; French Consul General Shri Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet; Political Counsellor of the French Embassy Shri Shad Joynal Abedin; and representatives from Alliance Française were present at the event.