Fluency in ‘French’ not required for Indian students to pursue education in France, details inside

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar convened a meeting with Anne-Marie Descotes, the Secretary-General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on 4^th February, Monday. During the meeting, Jaishankar underscored the strengthening strategic partnership between India and France, expressing confidence that initiatives such as the Foreign Office Consultations and Strategic Space Dialogue will further bolster bilateral ties.

Taking to social media platform X, Jaishankar shared his appreciation for the visit, affirming the continued growth of the strategic partnership between India and France. He highlighted the significance of the Foreign Office Consultations and Strategic Space Dialogue in sustaining this positive momentum. The longstanding and amicable relations between India and France have been marked by a Strategic Partnership initiated in 1998, symbolizing their shared perspectives on global issues alongside a flourishing bilateral relationship.

Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet, the French Consul General in Mumbai, recently emphasized the robust ties between the two countries, emphasizing shared values and interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a friend of France, citing his strong rapport with President Macron and the importance of high-level engagement in fostering bilateral cooperation.

Sere-Charlet also highlighted the deepening connections in the education sector, noting the increasing number of Indian students pursuing studies in France and the accessibility of French education with over 1,700 courses taught in English. Sere-Charlet also added that students do not require fluency in French to study in France. Speaking of business, he underscored the growing economic collaboration, with over 400,000 Indians employed by French companies in India, and a continual growth in investments.