In a significant move to bolster international cultural and tourism ties, Madhya Pradesh signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the French Embassy and Alliance Française de Bhopal on June 13, 2025. The agreement was formalized in Bhopal in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and French Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou. The initiative marks a new chapter in Indo-French cooperation, with the MoU spanning three years and aiming to establish Madhya Pradesh as a prominent destination for cultural exchange and tourism promotion.
Under the MoU, a broad range of joint initiatives will be undertaken. These include organizing annual cultural events such as music festivals, art exhibitions, film screenings, and culinary showcases that reflect both Indian and French heritage. Additionally, the partners will develop an Indo-French cultural calendar and translate key Madhya Pradesh tourism literature into French to attract visitors from France and other Francophone countries. Tourism personnel and guides in the state will also undergo training in French language and cultural norms to better serve international guests.
Another key component of the agreement involves strengthening educational and artistic exchanges. The MoU outlines provisions for artist residencies, student exchange programs, and promotion of tribal and heritage art forms such as Gond art. These efforts will allow Madhya Pradesh to share its indigenous cultural wealth on international platforms, including sites like Sanchi and Bhimbetka. The collaboration is expected to bring mutual benefits, enriching the cultural landscape of both regions while also enhancing tourism-driven economic opportunities.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Yadav expressed confidence that the MoU would serve as a catalyst for transforming Madhya Pradesh into a global hub for culture and tourism. Ambassador Mathou echoed this sentiment, noting France’s strong interest in sectors such as environment, tourism, education, and cultural cooperation. Dignitaries including the French Consul General Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet and top state officials were also present, underscoring the importance of the agreement. With this MoU, Madhya Pradesh positions itself for a stronger global presence in the fields of art, education, and sustainable tourism development.
