Paris/New Delhi, March 5 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, discussing "shared concerns" over the evolving situation in West Asia.
"I spoke with my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, today. We discussed our shared concerns regarding the evolving situation in West Asia and the need to return to dialogue and diplomacy. We will continue to work closely and coordinate efforts towards the early restoration of peace and stability in the region," Prime Minister Modi posted on X after the phone call.
Earlier in the day, while addressing the media jointly with the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, following their talks, PM Modi reflected that the world is going through a phase of instability and uncertainty, and highlighted that from Ukraine to West Asia, several parts of the world continue to face situations of conflict.
"India and Finland both believe in the rule of law, dialogue, and diplomacy. We agree that no issue can be resolved solely through military conflict. Whether in Ukraine or in West Asia, we will continue to support every effort aimed at the early end of conflict and the restoration of peace," said PM Modi.
Over the past few days, PM Modi has spoken with the top leadership of Qatar, UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait, as India remains in contact with the governments of the region, as well as other key partners, regarding the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf region.
During his discussions, Prime Minister Modi has strongly emphasised the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region through dialogue and diplomacy.
PM Modi and Macron recently met during the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi.
On Wednesday, PM Modi also thanked Macron for his Holi greetings.
It began with President Macron posting a brief message in Hindi on X: "Happy Holi, my friend!"
Responding to the greeting, Prime Minister Modi thanked the French President and conveyed his wishes in French.
“Merci beaucoup, mon ami! À l'occasion de la fête sacrée de Holi, je vous adresse, à vous et au peuple de France, mes vœux sincères de bonheur et de prospérité.”
The message translates to: "Thank you very much, my friend! On the sacred occasion of Holi, I extend my sincere wishes of happiness and prosperity to you and the people of France."
