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New Delhi, Sep 07:<\/strong> Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India-France relations have reached new heights and this strategic partnership is particularly special because it rests on the solid foundation of long-standing cultural and political ties.<\/p>\n Addressing virtually the inauguration of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris, PM Modi hoped that the grand temple in Paris will stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and opportunity between both the nations.<\/p>\n “In recent years, relations between India and France have reached new heights. Together with my friend, President (Emmanuel) Macron, both nations are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership,” he said.<\/p>\n The prime minister said that from technology, AI, and defence to space and climate action, India and France are moving forward together with new momentum and energy.<\/p>\n “We are also celebrating 2026 as the India-France Year of Innovation. This strategic partnership is particularly special because it rests on the solid foundation of our long-standing cultural and political ties,” he said.<\/p>\n Modi said these days, there is much talk about joint venture possibilities between India and France.<\/p>\n He said history bears witness that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers in France remains alive in the hearts of people to this day.<\/p>\n “Language enthusiasts also know the pivotal role French scholars played in popularising Sanskrit. Romain Rolland’s writings on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda brought our societies closer,” he said.<\/p>\n Furthermore, the prime minister said, the spiritual journey of ‘The Mother’ from Paris to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry has inspired countless Indian and French seekers.<\/p>\n He said decades ago, Srila Prabhupada Swami also visited France, opening a new chapter in spiritual connections through ISKCON.<\/p>\n “Today, yoga has also become a bridge for people-to-people connections between our nations. Images from the Eiffel Tower on International Yoga Day reflect yoga’s immense popularity in France,” he said.<\/p>\n PM Modi said the Swaminarayan temple adds a new dimension to those possibilities – \u0094it is ‘Made in India’ and ‘Built in France.’<\/p>\n “Many of its stones were carved in India, blending India’s ancient craftsmanship with modern engineering here in France,” he said.<\/p>\n PM Modi said he was confident that the resonant values of Indian culture originating from the newly built temple in Paris will benefit people across Europe.<\/p>\n He said that whenever time permits in the future, he will certainly try to visit the temple and pay respects.<\/p>\n “Now, through this magnificent BAPS temple (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha), another milestone is being added to our cultural relations,” he said.<\/p>\n The prime minister said Swaminarayan temples have always served as hubs of service alongside devotion.<\/p>\n “I am informed that this temple will likewise become a centre for service projects,” he said.<\/p>\n Modi said that through BAPS, whenever temples are consecrated in different countries, India’s ancient thoughts and human values travel right along with them.<\/p>\n “A magnificent temple stands ready today in France and it will not only enrich France’s diversity but also energise the cultural relations between India and France,” he said.<\/p>\n