Madhya Pradesh and France Forge Landmark Cultural-Tourism Partnership
Historic MoU Aims to Elevate MP’s Global Cultural Footprint
Bhopal, MP: In a landmark move to strengthen cultural and tourism ties between India and France, the Government of Madhya Pradesh signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the French Embassy and Alliance Française de Bhopal. The agreement, signed at the Chief Minister’s residence, Samatva, marks a significant step in positioning Madhya Pradesh as a key hub for Indo-French cultural exchange and tourism promotion.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav hailed the MoU as a transformative initiative that will bring global recognition to the state’s rich heritage. “This MoU embodies our vision to establish Madhya Pradesh as not only the cultural capital of India but also as a dynamic global centre for tourism and cultural exchange,” he said. “The agreement will provide international exposure to our artists and significantly boost tourist footfall from France and Europe.”
Strengthening Indo-French Ties
The MoU, valid for three years and extendable by mutual agreement, was signed by Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India; Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism & Culture, Madhya Pradesh; and Mr. Akhilesh Verma, President of Alliance Française de Bhopal.
Dr. Yadav emphasized that the partnership extends beyond culture, with potential collaborations in trade, industrial development, and entrepreneurship. He also revealed plans for an upcoming visit to France to further bolster bilateral relations.
Dr. Mathou echoed the sentiment, stating, “We are delighted to establish this important collaboration with Madhya Pradesh. France places great emphasis on cooperation in tourism, security, environment, and education. This MoU will strengthen cultural diplomacy, unlocking new opportunities in art, education, and tourism.”
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Key Initiatives Under the MoU
The agreement outlines several strategic initiatives, including:
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Joint cultural events – Art festivals, music and dance performances, film screenings, and culinary showcases celebrating shared heritage.
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Indo-French Cultural Calendar – An annual schedule of collaborative programmes.
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Tourism Promotion – Translating Madhya Pradesh’s tourism content into French and specialized training for guides and officials in French language and culture.
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A Boost for Local Talent and Tourism
The partnership is expected to provide global exposure to local artists, artisans, and students while enhancing the state’s appeal to French and European tourists. Officials present at the signing included Mr. Raghvendra Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Industries; Mr. Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, Consul General of France; and Mr. Shad Joynal Abedin, Political Advisor to the French Embassy.
With this agreement, Madhya Pradesh takes a decisive step toward securing its place on the world stage as a premier destination for cultural and tourism collaboration.
