India and France strengthen ties to advance India-Middle East-Europe Corridor project

India and France have agreed to enhance collaboration on the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) project, which aims to connect India to Europe via land and sea routes. This decision was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France. The IMEC project had faced challenges due to the Gaza conflict, but both leaders emphasized its significance for economic prosperity. They also signed a letter of intent to jointly develop small modular and advanced modular nuclear reactors. Additionally, Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated a new Indian Consulate in Marseille, which will strengthen cultural and economic ties. The consulate will also host the Mediterranean edition of the Raisina Dialogue this year.