SoCultures Magazine 2018 Vol 1 | Page 13

SoCultures October 2018 India & France No wonder the late Prime Minister of India, a visionary and a powerful orator Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that empowering the individual means empowering the nation. And empowerment is best served through rapid economic growth with rapid social change. France is known for its cultural legacy as well as its innovative preservation of its gracious heritage and what’s really incredible is maintaining it in the contemporary context with great success. The French tourism attracted approximately 3.6% of the total GDP in 2017 and is expected to rise by 4.0% of total GDP in 2028. Of Course, France is also talked about for the incredible fashion trends, declared by its some of its world-famous illustrious fashion houses every fashion season, green splendid vineyards, palaces with grand architecture as well as for the cool café culture of Paris too, which sometimes act as the best place to solve all the world's problems. A very pleasant personality, Dr Bertrand is full of knowledge and keen to be a great friend with India. He is very serious on implementing the French government initiatives for maintaining the cordial relationship with India. He says with a sweet smile, “Yes, we are foreigners but friendly foreigners.” Dr. Bertrand with the H.H. Ambassador of France 13 | P a g e