French Ambassador Thierry Mathou Meets Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel to Discuss Future Collaborations

Dr. Thierry Mathou, the Ambassador of France to India, visited Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. The meeting focused on strengthening the relationship between France and Gujarat, particularly in renewable energy, ports, and sports.

India as a Global Friend

Chief Minister Patel emphasized the warm relations between India and France, highlighting India’s evolving role as a global friend under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He noted that this spirit of cooperation benefits all states in India.

2036 Olympics in Gujarat

Patel expressed Gujarat’s interest in leveraging France’s expertise in infrastructure for the 2036 Olympics. He discussed how this infrastructure could serve long-term purposes beyond the event.

French Investments and Educational Collaborations

Ambassador Mathou mentioned the presence of a French delegation and announced investments by two French business groups during the Vibrant Summit-2024. He also visited IIM and NID in Ahmedabad and showed interest in establishing an educational complex in GIFT City along with Mahatma Gandhi International School.

GIFT City and Renewable Energy

Patel highlighted the facilities available in GIFT City, which has transformed into an International Finance Tech City. He assured support for France in renewable energy production, including land allocation.

Meeting Attendees

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Pankaj Joshi, Additional Chief Secretary of Industries Department SJ Haider, Secretary to Chief Minister Avantika Singh, OSD AB Panchal, VC & MD of Gujarat Maritime Board Shri Rajkumar Beniwal, and MD of Index-B Shri Gaurang Makwana.