Uttar Pradesh and France Explore New Avenues of Cooperation in Defense, Pharma, and Education

Lucknow: In a step towards fostering economic cooperation and cultural exchange, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met with French Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou on Monday. The meeting, which took place at the Chief Minister’s office, explored potential collaborations in key sectors, including defense, pharma, and education.

During the discussions, CM Yogi extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Mathou and expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening ties between Uttar Pradesh and France. The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment, making it an attractive destination for French investors.

Ambassador Mathou, accompanied by a delegation of French officials, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized the importance of strengthening trade and cultural ties between France and Uttar Pradesh. The delegation showed keen interest in collaborating on IT corridors, smart cities, and cultural development initiatives in the state.

The meeting also explored opportunities for enhancing bilateral relations, increasing investments, and expanding the footprint of French companies in Uttar Pradesh. Ambassador Mathou noted ongoing research in France on India’s ancient culture and history, while CM Yogi highlighted the significance of ancient manuscripts and historical documents preserved at Sampurnanand University in Varanasi.

Both sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in education, culture, and trade sectors. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of collaboration in the defense sector, citing the establishment of an MRO hub at Jewar Airport as a potential area of cooperation. He also highlighted investment opportunities in the Pharma Park being developed by the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority (BIDA).

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further strengthen ties between Uttar Pradesh and France. CM Yogi assured Ambassador Mathou of his government’s full support for French investments in the state, while the Ambassador expressed his enthusiasm for exploring new avenues of cooperation.

The visit is expected to pave the way for increased economic cooperation and cultural exchange between France and Uttar Pradesh, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.