Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India and France are strengthening a unique global strategic partnership based on their deep cultural and political connections. He made the remarks while virtually attending the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Paris.Modi expressed hope that the newly inaugurated temple would remain for generations as a symbol of friendship, cooperation and new opportunities between India and France. He said that the relationship between the two countries has gained considerable momentum in recent years."India and France have taken their relationship to new heights in recent years. Along with my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, we are working to build a Special Global Strategic Partnership," Modi said.The Prime Minister highlighted cooperation between the two nations in several important areas, including technology, artificial intelligence, defence, space and climate action. He also noted that 2026 is being observed as the India France Year of Innovation, giving further importance to the growing partnership.According to Modi, the strength of India France relations comes not only from present day cooperation but also from a long history of cultural and political interaction. He pointed to the possibility of greater collaboration through joint ventures between the two countries.Speaking about historical links, Modi recalled the contribution of Indian soldiers who made sacrifices in France, saying their role continues to be remembered. He also referred to French scholars who helped increase awareness of Sanskrit and Indian spiritual traditions.Modi mentioned French writer Romain Rolland and his writings on Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda, saying these works helped bring Indian and French societies closer. He also highlighted the spiritual journey of The Mother, who travelled from Paris to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry and inspired many seekers in both countries.The Prime Minister further recalled that Srila Prabhupada Swami had visited France decades ago, contributing to a new chapter in spiritual exchanges through ISKCON. He said yoga has also become an important link between the people of India and France, with its popularity visible through celebrations such as International Yoga Day at the Eiffel Tower.According to Modi, the new Swaminarayan temple represents another important step in strengthening cultural connections between the two nations. He described it as "Made in India" and "Built in France", noting that several stones used in its construction were carved in India before being incorporated into the temple in France.He said the temple brings together India's traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering in France. Modi expressed confidence that the Indian cultural and spiritual values associated with the temple would reach people throughout Europe and contribute positively to society.The Prime Minister also said that he would make an effort to visit the temple personally whenever his schedule allows and offer his respects there.Modi described the inauguration as another significant milestone in the cultural relationship between India and France. He pointed out that Swaminarayan temples have traditionally combined religious devotion with social service.He said he had been informed that the Paris temple would also undertake various service related activities, continuing this tradition. Through BAPS, he added, the consecration of temples around the world carries Indian philosophical ideas and human values to different communities.Modi said the newly established temple would contribute to France's cultural diversity while giving further momentum to the close cultural relationship between India and France.