Indo-French Ties

[Cosmo_R]

Roma in trouble after rise of fundamental christism
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article ... ead_module

"One chilling protocol, approved by Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels in 1942, declared: ‘Gipsies are to be exterminated. The idea of extermination by work is best.’

This horrific diktat is printed on a wall at the entrance to a monument opened last year by Chancellor Angela Merkel at Berlin’s Parliament building, the Reichstag, in memory of the 500,000 Roma massacred in gas chambers and work camps during the Holocaust.

Merkel’s gesture to the Roma comes at a time when 41 per cent of the German population admit they would ‘have a problem’ with gipsies in their area."

The Germans are better than the French. Never thought I'd say this.

India should really set up an international human rights organization that is focused on racism and civil rights violations in developed countries.

[Cosmo_R]

Allons enfants de la Patrie:

"PARIS—France's state-run railway system Wednesday admitted failing to mind the gap, after realizing that a fleet of new trains it has ordered are too wide to fit many of the country's stations.

Confirming a report in satirical weekly Le Canard Enchaîné, train operator Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer and network owner Réseau Ferré de France said about 1,300 of France's 8,700 railway platforms must be trimmed to make way for the wider rolling stock.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/21/travel/fr ... ains-sncf/

Same folks who had the problem of not planning a long enough deck on the Charles de Gaulle for the E2C Hawkeye

[Rony]

France's ex-President Sarkozy put under investigation

Investigators are trying to find out whether Mr Sarkozy, 59, who was president from 2007 to 2012, had promised a prestigious role in Monaco to Mr Azibert, in exchange for information about an investigation into illegal campaign funding.

The inquiry into funding is looking into whether Mr Sarkozy received illegal donations for the 2007 election campaign from late Libyan leader, Muammar Gaddafi.

[Rahul M]

x-post

what's up with BR ? the only place modi's visit to france is being discussed is the rafale thread !
nothing here ?
=================================

http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2015 ... the-seine/

Modi Arrives in France for Defense Deals, Nuclear Talks and a Boat Ride

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/indi ... 851773.cms
Modi goes shopping for nuclear power in France and Canada


PM Modi's France trip: Agenda to go beyond civil nuclear talks & include pact to pair heritage sites
Read more at:
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/art ... aign=cppst

[arshyam]

x-post from the Rafale thread:

Meanwhile, French press.

Interesting contrast to the coverage he received when visiting the US. So much for the Indo-U.S. strategic partnership - no one on the ground really cares.

I am disappointed that even BRF is not covering Modi's visit to this extent (outside the Rafale thread). Come on folks, let's at least document what transpired, we don't have to praise the relationship with France or anything like that! Fact is, we discussed Modi's US visit ad nauseam, but the coverage in the US media was practically non-existent. Which was typical. Even NPR had nothing more than a -oh-by-the-way sort of report.

But the France visit, which is of a lot more substance, and going by their coverage, there is more interest in the visit, we are quiet. Are there any BRFites living in France? What's their perception?

[arshyam]

x-post

EconomicTimes ‏@EconomicTimes 46m46 minutes ago

#Make in India gains momentum. $2 billion cumulative outsourcing planned by #Airbus from #India by 2020: MEA

[arshyam]

x-post

NaMo live in Paris

PM Modi at Community reception at Carrousel du Louvre in Paris

[ramana]

arshyam, Thanks for the initiative in documenting Modi's France trip.

[arshyam]

Modi in France: List of agreements signed - India Today

My comments inline.

France on Friday called India a "bright spot" in global economy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his 'Make in India' initiative to invite top French businesses to invest in the country, particularly in the areas of defence and infrastructure. Read: Modi says India will buy 36 Rafale Jets in fly-away condition from France

The agreements signed are as follows:

Defence and Nuclear Energy
MoU between L&T and AREVA: It is aimed at cost reduction by increasing localization, to improve the financial viability of Jaitapur project. It will also enable transfer of technology and development of indigenous nuclear energy industry in India.

Pre-engineering agreements between NPCIL and Areva: The PEA studies intend to bring clarity on all technical aspects of the plant so that all parties (AREVA, Alstom and NPCIL) can firm up their price and optimize all provisions for risks still included at this stage in the costs of the project.

Space {For some reason, IT classified these under Defence}
MoU between ISRO and CNES on Megha Tropiques: The Indo-French Megha Tropiques satellite was launched on board the Indian launch vehicle, PSLV on October 12, 2011. The MoU shall extend by 2 more years, the joint project for sharing and use of data from the satellite.

MOU between ISRO, CNES and ONERA for Ka-band propagation experiment over Indian tropical region: The MoU envisages cooperation for implementation of the project concerning Ka- band propagation experiment over Indian tropical region. The main objective is to collect Ka-Band attenuation data using available Ka-Band transmission and perform analysis along with corresponding radio meter and meteorological data.

Space
Programme between ISRO and French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES): The Agreement proposes cooperation in the areas of Satellite Remote sensing, satellite communications and satellite meteorology; space sciences and planetary exploration; data collection and location; operations of satellite ground stations and spacecraft mission management; space research and applications. It covers the potential cooperation activities such as joint earth observation mission, hosted payload opportunities and Mars exploration.

Sports
MoU on Cooperation between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of India and French Ministry of Sports, Youth Affairs, Public Education and Community Life: The MoU envisages cooperation and exchange of experiences in the fields of sports medicine, institutional cooperation, development of practice of sports in the context of proximity sports, support of participation of women and the disabled in sports, management and coordination of sports federations, training of executives and establishment of National Institute of Sports in India based on French model of INSEP.

Economic Relations
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the field of renewable energy between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India and the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy, Government of France: The understanding reached in this MoU will help establish the basis for cooperation and relationship to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable energy issues on the basis of mutual benefits and reciprocity through exchange and training of technical personnel, exchange of information and data, joint research and transfer of know-how and technology. It would cover solar, wind, bio-energy, tidal and wave energy sectors.

Railways
Railway protocol between Indian Ministry of Railways and French National Railways (SNCF):The Protocol seeks to establish cooperation between Indian and French Railways for semi-high speed rail and station renovation. { Better French than Chinese. Most people will not know this, but the original batch of WAM-1 electric locomotives India imported were from France's SNCF, which helped us switch over to 25kV AC traction from the 1.5kV DC traction from the British days. 25kV AC traction is more suited for long distance and heavy hauling and helped us rapidly deploy electric traction across the country. This import also led to the building of Chittaranjan Loco works and the follow on extremely rugged desi workhorses: the WAM-4, which still soldier on, and later the WAP-4, which is the current mainstay. Sources: IRFCA: Electric Traction voltages, and IRFCA: AC Electric Locomotives }

Energy
Guarantee Agreement with AFD Financing of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL): The Agreement seeks to finance Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)

Culture, Heritage Conservation, Tourism, People-to-people contacts
Administrative Arrangement in the field of Cultural Heritage: The Administrative Arrangement between the Indian Ministry of Culture and French Ministry of Culture and Communication, envisages cooperation in the field of cultural heritage, through training of Indian heritage conservation professionals at the Institute National du Patrimoine (INP), a higher education establishment of training for curators and restorers in the field of heritage in France, as well as Development of cultural and scientific cooperation in the fields of conservation and restoration of the heritage, short duration training sessions in India by INP trainers in Indian institutes and training of French training in India etc.

Letter of Intent on Tourism
LoI for increasing cooperation in tourism sector signed between India and France aims to promote sustainable bilateral tourism between the two countries including through mutual promotion of tourism, ensuring safety of tourists and encouraging sharing of expertise and best practices. The LoI also seeks to facilitate twinning of sites having historical, natural and cultural significance in India and France for promoting them as tourist destinations. { There were some rumours of easier tourist visa process for Indians to visit France, but no mention here. Maybe because of Schengen? Anyway, France's loss, as they are having an image problem among Asian tourists due to increasing number of thefts. }

Letter of Intent (LoI) between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and National Institute of Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP)
The LoI envisages collaboration on preventive archaeology projects, initiatives to disseminate culture and promote archaeology, training programmes for specialists of ASI and deployment of expertise, in particular, in the field of underwater archaeology.

MOU between School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi and National Architecture Institute in Paris, France: The MoU envisages cooperation to undertake joint planning and geographical studies in India and France and training of local counterparts in modern urban and regional research as well as in techniques of scientific methods in Urban and regional planning, geography, environment, Building engineering and management.

MoU between Indian Heritage Cities Network Foundation (IHCN) and Association Nationale des Villes et Pays d'Art et d'Histoire et villes a secteurs sauvegardes et proteges (ANVPAH): This MoU envisages cooperation between to cooperate in the fields of sustainable development, urban planning, heritage conservation and up-gradation of basic services.

Proposal for twinning of historical monuments: Twinning of historical monuments is covered under the LoI on Tourism Cooperation.

VIE scheme to allow Indian students in France and French students in India to stay for a period of 24 months: The Volontariat International en Entreprise (VIE) scheme offers Indian Visa for 12 months renewable once for a period of 12 months for 250 French students and a 'second residence permit' of 12 months for the Indian students in France following the 12 months already granted.

Letter of Intent on Ayurveda between Ministry of Ayush and University of Strasbourg: LoI allows both the parties to strengthen their relationships and cooperation in the area of Ayurveda education and research by undertaking academic and research activities, exploring feasibility of collaborative research, and drawing up strategies for dissemination of results of completed studies, Conducting joint workshops/conferences on Ayurveda as complimentary medicine in France.

Skill Development
MoU between National Skill Development Agency (NSDA), India and the National Commission for Vocational Qualifications (Commission Nationale de la Certification Professionnelle – CNCD): For exchange of information regarding the maintenance of National Skills Qualification Framework and the French National Register for Vocational Certifications (RNCP). The agreement will facilitate exchange of information and knowledge about maintenance of qualification registers through information exchanges, visits and other suitable meetings. { France, along with Germany is known to be particularly strong in this area, which corresponds to our ITI/vocational training institutes. Fits in well with Modi's focus on skills based entrepreneurship. }

Science and Technology
MoU on cooperation in the field of Science & Technology between Department of Science & Technology of India and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS): The MoU is for cooperation between the two countries in the areas of applied mathematics, physics, Information & communication technology, water resources and environment, life sciences, astronomy, climate and energy by exchange of information, organization of meetings/workshops/seminars, exchange of research personnel; joint projects; establishment of Virtual Joint Laboratories, and establishment of Joint Research Centres.

MoU between Department of Biotechnology of India and CNRS and UPMC on Collaboration for establishment of a National Institute of Marine Biology and Biotechnology in India: The proposed MoU seeks to establish a National Institute of Marine Biology and Biotechnology in India, with a Hub and Spoke network of laboratories spanning India’s marine regions from the Andaman to Lakshadweep.

[arshyam]

x-post, for an official version of the above report:

17 agreements signed. Details awaited.

20

http://www.narendramodi.in/list-of-agre ... pril-2015/

[arshyam]

Joint press conference:

[arshyam]

Exchange of agreements between our PM and France's President:

[arshyam]

ramana-ji, thanks for your kind words.

[arshyam]

A few more x-posts, then I am done. Kindly bear with me.

French nuke shot in PM arm

New Delhi, April 10: France on Friday became the first major nuclear power to agree to manufacture nuclear reactor parts in India, and committed to reducing the cost of six reactors it is selling to New Delhi, the assurance coming during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit today.

"The agreements to reduce the cost of nuclear power are very important for us to progress in our co-operation. This is representative of our deep trust in each other," Modi said in Hindi after the meeting late evening in Paris.

Areva, the French nuclear operator signed an agreement with Indian firm Larsen & Toubro to jointly manufacture nuclear components - a move that fits in with Modi's "Make in India" initiative aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing.

But crucially, Indian production of key nuclear parts will likely also reduce manufacturing costs and the eventual burden on the taxpayers when India purchases reactors made from these components.

Finally, the Indian manufacture of nuclear components will yield something India has long craved - technology transfer from a key nuclear power. "We have no reason for any distrust in our relationship," Hollande said.

Areva and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), India's sole nuclear operator, also signed a separate agreement to finalise the cost of the six reactors. France has so far been demanding a price equivalent to Rs 9 per unit of electricity, a rate India has argued is not viable. Instead, India has pitched a maximum cost of Rs 6 per unit.

The breakthrough in the logjam over pricing represents a second advance in three months in India's nuclear ties with key world powers, after the understanding New Delhi reached with Washington on resolving US concerns over nuclear liability during President Barack Obama's visit to India in January.

[arshyam]

{quote="Kakkaji"}Some more details are reported in this article. Posting in full:

NPCIL and AREVA to expedite talks to seal commercial agreement for Jaitapur project

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) and Areva are expected to speed negotiations to enter into a commercial agreement for the supply of six evolutionary pressurised reactors (EPRs) of 1,650-megawatt (Mw) capacity each for the Jaitapur project in Maharashtra.

The agreement signed between India and France on Friday laying emphasis on localisation has paved the way for resumption of talks as little progress has been made so far since NPCIL and Areva entered into an early works contract in December 2010.

Nuclear sector experts say the thrust on the localisation, especially with the involvement of Larsen & Toubro during the construction of 9,900-Mw Jaitapur plant will help bring down the per-unit tariff to Rs 6- 6.50 a unit, down from Rs 9.18 a unit quoted earlier by Areva.

The project is likely to come up in 2022. The cost of power was a major roadblock for talks to move forward as NPCIL and Areva had differences.

France has also decided to provide India a loan for the project at 4.8 per cent interest rate for 25 years.

NPCIL official told the Business Standard: “The localisation in manufacturing reactor equipment will be achieved for nuclear island, conventional island, auxiliary island and service system of the Jaitapur nuclear plant. Various components can be manufactured here and installed with exacting standards as specified by Areva. The cost of components will be cheap which will help make the Jaitapur tariff quite competitive.”

NPCIL’s former chairman and managing director S K Jain, during whose tenure the early works agreement was signed, said the feasibility study carried out had clearly said the Jaitapur project was feasible, economical and viable thanks to the judicious mix of localisation and financing. “The per unit tariff of Jaitapur project will be at par with the thermal power projects in the country,” he noted. The issues relating to the civil nuclear liability had hampered the talks between NPCIL and Areva. However, experts believe India's plan for an insurance pool could address the concerns raised by Areva. The government of India has also clarified that India's Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 was compatible with the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage. Meanwhile, NPCIL official said EPRs will have safety features to address even beyond design basis scenarios.

The reactors designs will have passive safety systems requiring no operator intervention in the event of a major malfunction.

{/quote}

[arshyam]

So Indian companies like L&T get long-term finance to kickstart their diversification into building nuclear components without government aid, and acquire manufacturing capability for creating components with maraging steel in the process. This sets the stage for them to build components for locally made reactors in the long term. kudos to this planning by the GoI.

Like I said above, a lot of substance on this visit. Very productive, as is usual with Modi. Looking forward to the Germany and Canada visits. Too bad I couldn't go see him in Canada due to their bloody minded visa process. Again, their loss.

[panduranghari]

^^^France has a strong Atlanticist impulse. Western/Atlantic Europe was the king of the world for 3 centuries. but that influence was shattered in WWII. but now even the supposed superiority of gora skin is not proving useful. so expect them to really show their colors over the coming decades. i completely agree with George Friedman (an Atlanticist himself) when he says that the long-term decline of Franco-German Europe is inevitable and will take place within the first half of 21st century, and France and Germany will become pale shadows of what they once were, in terms of Global influence, by the end of the 21st century.

I disagree. Franco-German combination will be USA of the 22nd century without the political will to bring about regime or religious change in the world.

[Rahul M]

arshyam, Thanks for the initiative in documenting Modi's France trip.

seconded.

we should also look to collect any opinion pieces on this visit from non-Indian sources.

[svinayak]

I disagree. Franco-German combination will be USA of the 22nd century without the political will to bring about regime or religious change in the world.

This could become a reality. But they will have competition. US/China combine may come after them

Watch the speech by Merkel during Modi visit now in yourtube and see the vision they have for the future

[panduranghari]

Lol ...non indian sources.

Do indians writing for non Indian sources count.

http://thediplomat.com/2015/04/modis-in ... m-to-care/

I arrived in France on vacation just four days before Modi’s state visit began on Thursday. The visit made me curious: what did the French public think of India’s leader? Are most people in France aware of Modi’s trip? Are Indian expats in France excited to greet Modi?

My interactions in Paris and Caen, a city in Western France, have suggested that Modi’s shine abroad may be fading....


Four other faculty members I met at Caen seemed to have a negative impression of Modi.

“I feel he does not represent the spirit of India. He is an anathema,” said Camille Claustre, a professor of literature.

Some of the Indian students I met on campus were reluctant to talk about politics. “There is not much interest among French students about India,” Sandeep Kumar Chalubadi said. “I am aware that Modi is coming to France but most of the students don’t care about it.” However, Chalubadi’s friends have taken an increased interest in India since last year’s election. “Some of my friends have been asking about a beef ban in India,” he adds. “They find it very funny. I find it difficult to explain. Attacks on Muslims and Christians in India and the beef ban don’t look good to the French.”

Still, Modi’s trip barely registers in newspapers and on TV stations in France. “France is more interested in trade with China,” Romain Siegenfuhr, a Paris-based documentary filmmaker tells me. “India is not that important. France is still preoccupied with internal problems and the Eurozone crisis.”

Despite what the Indian press may say, there is no real buzz greeting Modi in France.

[panduranghari]

Prime minister Narendra Modi's longest foreign tour of eight days to France, Germany and Canada is an occasion for multipurpose diplomacy to further India's interests. It advances a 'Link West' agenda to complement the 'Act East' policy and presents India as a balanced player that is strategically attentive in all geographic directions.


Industrialised Western middle powers have tremendous potential to assist India's rising economic graph. Modi is tugging at the hearts and minds of corporate titans sitting over investible capital in France, Germany and Canada because he is perceived to be walking the talk on overhauling the Indian economy. His 'Make in India' campaign is garnering serious foreign attention and buyin thanks to the accelerating pace of our GDP growth.
High-profile CEO forums with visiting Indian prime ministers are not Modi's inventions. They have been held even by his predecessors during foreign visits. But now, these interactive sessions are laced with greater hope and belief among foreign investors because Modi is hitting the right notes and running India like a CEO.

As he struts the stage in western Europe and North America, the proverbial wind is at his back, with the Indian economy entering a sweet spot after six years of list ..

Read more at:
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/art ... aign=cppst

Read it all.

[svinayak]

“Some of my friends have been asking about a beef ban in India,” he adds. “They find it very funny. I find it difficult to explain. Attacks on Muslims and Christians in India and the beef ban don’t look good to the French.”

Cow protection has been spinned into beef ban. Check how the propaganda is going on due to Indian secular English media which is actually working for the west. It is a informer press only for the western audience

[Vayutuvan]

a simple question for the cognoscenti of Indian govt. terms : What is the difference between MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) and an Agreement? Is the former a weaker form of an agreement or they are synonyms in the Indian context?

[member_29004]

“Some of my friends have been asking about a beef ban in India,” he adds. “They find it very funny. I find it difficult to explain. Attacks on Muslims and Christians in India and the beef ban don’t look good to the French.”

Cow protection has been spinned into beef ban. Check how the propaganda is going on due to Indian secular English media which is actually working for the west. It is a informer press only for the western audience

Well, I eat beef and I cant be cornered to just have water buffalo. BJP in long term is shooting on its foot. Now before I get hounded, I am off this topic. You can have last word.

[svinayak]

MOU is signed when there is no clear project clarity and no real business transactions. It will protect IP and knowhow when the business agreements are discussed .and explored.

http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/ful ... 77749.html

Hannover: With "Make in India" campaign painted all over the German town of Hannover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday vowed to remove unnecessary regulations and procedures to simplify the process of foreign investment in India as he spoke at the opening of Hannover Messe.


Here is his full speech at the fest:

"Her Excellency, Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel,

Vice Chancellor, Mr. Sigmar Gabriel,

Minister Dr. Johanna Wanka,

Minister-PresidentMr. Stephan Weil

Chairman of Deutsche Messe

Dr. Wolfram von Fritsch

It is truly a great privilege for me to be here at the Inauguration of the world's largest industrial fair. It is a special honour to do so in the company of Chancellor Merkel, a great leader and friend of India.

First, I want to thank the city of Hannover and Hannover Messe. They have been most generous in allowing us to unleash our lions in this city. The lions are a symbol of a new India. They roar; but with a message of friendship and promise of partnership, from 1.25 billion people of India. This is also the message of 15 states, 20 CEOs and 350 companies from India participating in this Fair.

Your choice of India as a Partner Country reflects the new confidence in India. Our decision to be here in the first year of my Government reflects our priority:

We want to accelerate economic growth and create jobs for our youth.

We want to build world class industry and infrastructure.

We want totransform our cities and villages; clean up our environment; and improve the quality of life.

Our presence as a partner country says something else also. We will naturally pursue our goals on the strength of our own resources, skills and enterprise. But, we know that we will be more successful when we do this in partnership with the world. For people in India, Germany is a valued partner; and, an enduring symbol of technology and innovation, quality and productivity.

Even more, India and Germany share a close and warm relationship. It goes back centuries, in the intellectual journey of German scholars. It has grown in depth and diversity from our birth as modern Republics at the same time, Through the passage of history, Indians and Germans have formed a relationship of mutual fascination and goodwill.

It also includes a vibrant economic partnership that extends beyond the last century. Today, you can easily think of companies like Siemens as Indian! Nearly a hundred years ago, India's great poet and philosopher, Rabindranath Tagore said, that Germany has done more than any other country to open India to the Western World.

Today, I come to seek German partnership in my own mission to open up India's seamless economic potential.To the industry of the world that has assembled here today, I say that we have no special bias for our host today! India is open and ready to embrace the world. As I have travelled around the world, I have seen a new level of interest in building partnerships of trade, investment and innovation in India. It mirrors the surge of hope in our own people and industry; the new tide of expectation in our 800 million youth – for opportunities and progress. And, if we want to fulfill the dreams of our youth, we must turn our industry into a manufacturing hub for the world and an engine for employment at home. And, we must equip our youth with the skills to meet the needs of our nation, and the demands of the globalised world.

Whatever we choose to do, from reaching the cutting edge of industry to meeting the most critical social need, we require investment and technology, industry and enterprise. That is why for me, Make in India is not a brand. Nor is it simply a slogan on a smart lion!

It is a new national movement. And, it covers the whole spectrum of our government, society and business. To this informed audience, I hardly need to state the obvious: Our scale of transformation is vast; therefore, the opportunities we offer are huge.

You are also familiar with our demography and our demand. The question that you ask is whether we can turn this potential into a reality; and, our vision into action.

What you seek is not just an attractive destination; but, also the assurance that it is open; and, it is easy to reach and work in. You want the confidence that the environment is stable; the rules won't change frequently; and there would be no surprises. So, we have moved with speed, resolve and boldness to fulfill our pledge.

We are creating a stable economic environment that inspires confidence at home and abroad. We are pursuing strong fiscal discipline to do that. I know how much Chancellor Merkel will appreciate that point!

We have taken sweeping steps to reform our policies and open up more to foreign direct investments in key areas like insurance, construction, defence and railways. Railways is the thread that binds India. It will now be a fast track to India's transformation. And, what was a department of the government is now open o 00% Foreign Direct Investments.

We are removing unnecessary regulations and simplifying our procedures. We are using digital technology to eliminate multiple approvals and endless wait. We will guide you and walk with you in your projects. We have set up Invest India and country desks in it that will be networked to the states. We will nurture innovation and protect your intellectual property. There were institutions in India that seemed beyond scrutiny. Well, they no longer are. We are reforming institutions in ways that has not happened in decades. We are building a tax regime that is predictable, stable and competitive. We will now address the remaining uncertainties. The Goods and Services Tax is a long needed revolution that is becoming a reality.

For us, the highest priority is creating world class infrastructure. We have made a sharp increase in public investments. We have established a National Infrastructure and Investment Fund and a new institution for integrated development of this sector. We are launching attractive new financial instruments for long term funds. We seek to fuel our growth with the cleanest and most efficient use of energy.

We have set a target of 75 Giga Watts of new capacity for renewable and clean energy in the next seven years. It is a challenging goal- yes; but, important to pursue. Good Governance is essential not just for our citizens, but also for business. With transparency and speed, we have resumed long stalled projectsand allocation of resources. This is adding new momentum to our economy. We are instituting a rational framework for acquisition of land without causing distress to farmers and other landowners. We are creating a predictable and transparent environment approval process that will protect our natural heritage. Above all, we know, as you do, that the investment journey may begin in Delhi, but its success depends on state capitals and districts.

So, for the first time, we are working as Team India – a new partnership between the Centre and the States. We speak of cooperative federalism, but also of competitive federalism, where states would excel by competing with each other for investments and jobs. We are also giving them more resources, so that they can build the infrastructure that you need. I also see them as partners in our international engagement.

But, I am also aware that it is easier to change policies and write new laws than it is to change attitudes, culture and systems. Every CEO who has tried a turnaround knows that. Our task is huge; it won't be completed overnight. But, I am confident that it will. And, we are moving firmly and clearly in that direction. The wind of change is there. and, it is gathering speed. When IMF, the World Bank, credit rating agencies and expert speak in one voice of optimism about India, we know that the wind is blowing in the right direction. And, it has made us the fastest growing economy in the world.

So, my message to you is this: You will find environment that is not only open, but also welcoming. We will make it easy to do business in India. And, we will always be eager to listen to your feedback. So, our industry is here to showcase their skills. There are many Indian examples of technological leadership in the world. But, we want a future in which excellence defines every sector and every industry in our country. And, they are here to seek your partnership.

It is not just about financial flows, new technology or products. It is also about learning from each other; about seeing possibilities in new ways. India is a nation that is blessed with so much goodwill in the world. Everywhere, I see a strong desire for India to succeed.

The progress of one sixth of humanity will be of great consequence for the world and our beautiful planet. It will be a world of more hope and opportunities; a world more confident of its success.This is a time of political instability and economic challenges; and, threats of violence that are increasingly close to our homes. The humanity needs the solidarity and strength of international partnerships more than ever before.

India will do its part - as an anchor of economic stability; an engine for growth; and, as a force of peace and stability in the world. So, let me invite you to do business and make in India – for India and the world. Let me invite you to be our partner in making a new India. I also welcome you to enjoy our timeless traditions, the ceaseless celebration of diversity;and, the warm embrace of friendship.

I wish the Fair all success. When its shutters come down, I hope that many new doors would have opened.

Thank you once again."

[KJo]

Love this. We finally have a dharmic leader to leave Bharat. I hope we don't screw it up in the next election and bring back the evil party.
We dodged a bullet. Imagine Pappu representing Bharat.

[Kashi]

Do indians writing for non Indian sources count.

http://thediplomat.com/2015/04/modis-in ... m-to-care/

This "Sanjay Kumar" is a regular contributor to the Paki Express tribune and no prizes for guessing what he writes about.

[ashish raval]

panduranghari wrote:
“Some of my friends have been asking about a beef ban in India,” he adds. “They find it very funny. I find it difficult to explain. Attacks on Muslims and Christians in India and the beef ban don’t look good to the French.”

Classic dhimmi. What could you expect from literature types? Defending India? Lol.

No one in my office comes even close to thinking or commenting bad about India. I will rip them off with examples worse than they might have experienced in India or about India possibly in their own country. It is just matter of keeping your mind open to what happens around the western world everyday and keep them for defense. I really pity(rather hate) those cowed out type Indians with gora shoe polishing mentality out there representing India.

Why do you have burkha ban in France!! Should be able to set the scene of what is coming!!

[partha]

^
ashishji, well said. There are so many sticks to beat the goras with:

Iraq and Afghanistan wars
Human rights abuses by CIA
NSA mass surveillance
French burqa ban
CIA torture sites
California horse meat ban
etc

Too many to list. They find beef ban "funny" because eating beef is normal for them and they expect rest of the world to be the same. F*** them. "Western Universalism".

[nandakumar]

a simple question for the cognoscenti of Indian govt. terms : What is the difference between MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) and an Agreement? Is the former a weaker form of an agreement or they are synonyms in the Indian context?

Not formally trained in law. But still, let me attempt an explanation. An MoU is an agreement to enter into an agreement on a specific transaction. Think of it this way. It is like an agreement to sell as opposed to a contract of sale. In an agreement to sell either party to it can petition the Court demanding specific performance or sue to claim liquidated damages for non performance of the terms of the agreement. Depending on the actual language used, an MoU should lead to a binding agreement if not viewed as tantamount to an agreement already. In the Indian context what happens is that a party aggrieved by the conduct of the other under an MoU, goes to Court gets interim injunction that limits the options available to the other party as to the subject matter of the MoU. Given the slow speed with which things move under the Indian legal system, that is more than half the battle won. In the circumstances, the issue of whether an MoU is a contract or not becomes irrelevant.
Added later.
In the context of bilateral relations, it is a different matter altogether. Countries do agree to agree. But you can't take the matter to the UN or the International Court of Justice just because the other country has failed to follow through. It is all part of the optics presented before the general public. During the PM Australia visit SBI and the Adani Group signed an MoU for a 1 billion $ loan for developing a coal mine. Adani's cant very well sue the SBI for breach of promise on the MoU, can they?

[kmkraoind]

Modi’s tough challenge - Saudigazette

Even Saudi news papers are talking positively of Modi wrt to France tour, but our many of Media Workers have not even tweeted/wrote positively about Modi's France visit.

[ashish raval]

Very well said, parthaji. Like swami Vivekananda said you should have guts to stand up for India. I think hundreds of years of gulami has made their brains caged which is put on show. I hope these chaps don't end up in leadership positions representing "India". I find Chinese more nationalist and confident in this regard to defend china, whichever way you think about them.

[Philip]

Waiting for full details to emerge before commenting.

Indo-French ties historically have been without pinpricks as we've experienced with the US,UK,etc. The French have a v.great respect for Indian culture and are great Indophiles. When it comes to business though,it has always been hard bargaining and French wares do not come cheap at all.Some years ago,a former admiral then heading one of our commands,when asked about the capability of the PN's Agosta 90Bs wished that he had some of them too! France has also been a reliable supplier of mil. eqpt. in the past,but has sold its wares to both India and Pak without hesitation!

That France welshed on the Mistral deal with Russia due to US pressure has come as a major surpirise though.It really indicates M.Hollande's weakness of will. He had his morning's covert "cycling" with his mistress more in mind than minding the affairs of state (pun intended!).In general,most Frenchmen and other French presidents would never have given in as weakly and easily as he did. Nevertheless, the GOI's deliberate statements that Russian aircraft (MKIs) and N-plants were cheaper for India to acquire and operate sent the right message to the French,who have come down somewhat on the pricing ,etc. of their N-plants,Rafales,etc. There are huge opportunities in various fields for both countries to cooperate in and perhaps a resumption of Indo-French ties along the lines of when M.Mitterand and Rajiv G were in power,1989,when a grand Fetival of France was held,kicking off in Bombay,could find celebrated yet again both in India and France under Mr.Modi.

[panduranghari]

Modi's France Visit a Feather in his Cap

Prime minister Narendra Modi’s just-concluded visit to France will go down in history as one of the most productive that makes the two countries strategic partners.............


....Again, because of the UPA government’s indecisiveness, the country could not obtain proper benefits from the India-US civil nuclear deal. Modi seems to be in a hurry to transform India into a developed nation. That was indeed the subtext of his visit to France.

[RamaY]

“Some of my friends have been asking about a beef ban in India,” he adds. “They find it very funny. I find it difficult to explain. Attacks on Muslims and Christians in India and the beef ban don’t look good to the French.”

Cow protection has been spinned into beef ban. Check how the propaganda is going on due to Indian secular English media which is actually working for the west. It is a informer press only for the western audience

Tell them Cows are to Hindus/Indian as Dogs are for Christian West. Ask them how they feel about people eating Dogs just to humiliate the west. They will understand.

[rsingh]

One has to be very careful in dealing with French. These are buggers of highest class. They think that they are superpower because most of the time they have to deal with bhuke-nange Africans or moderate faithfools (Tunisia, Algeria etc). IIRC they sold same submarine to us and to bakis.

[Vayutuvan]

nandakumar: Thanks.

[Gus]

Even Saudi news papers are talking positively of Modi wrt to France tour, but our many of Media Workers have not even tweeted/wrote positively about Modi's France visit.

well..you should be happy that the presstitutes are not doing a modi == rahul, in that he has absconded on a 'vacation'.

come to think of it, that == is being put out indirectly..

[Muppalla]

Let us track the Paris Terror attach here. 60 dead and several taken hostages. 7 different locations in the city are attacked.

[Muppalla]

• At least 40 dead in Paris shootings and explosions
• Francois Hollande has declared a state of emergency. All French borders will be closed.
• Explosion in a bar near the Stade near France stadium, where France were playing Germany
• President Hollande rushed out of stadium to crisis cell at Ministry of Interior
• Fifteen of victims were killed at Bataclan concert hall where hostages were taken
• Mayor of Paris urged Parisians to stay home

• Reports of up to six gunmen, still on the run

• US president Obama "ready to assist"

• British PM 'shocked' by attacks