Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with the highest honour of France, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, by French President Emmanuel Macron, according to an official statement

Tweeting the photographs of the award ceremony that took place at the Elysee Palace, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, “A warm gesture embodying the spirit of partnership. PM ?@narendramodi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President ?@EmmanuelMacron".

The prime minister was accorded a red-carpet welcome as he arrived in Paris on a two-day visit on Thursday.

Today, he will join Macron for the French National Day celebrations?as the Guest of Honour.

"Prime minister thanked President Macron for this singular honour on behalf of the people of India,” the MEA said in a statement.

Earlier, the French President and First Lady Brigitte Macron hosted a private dinner for Modi at the Elysee Palace.

PM Modi addressed Indian diaspora

On Thursday evening,? PM Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in paris.

"My attachment to France is quite old, and I can never forget it. Around 40 years ago, a cultural centre of France was started in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and the first member of that very centre is today talking to you,” the prime minister said.

While addressing, the PM Modi described India as a 'model of diversity' and announced an agreement for the use of UPI in France, opening a huge new market for the Indian innovation in cashless instant payment.

PM Modi in his speech also emphasised on India's fast-paced economic development and asserted that while the world is moving towards a new order, India's strength and role is also changing very quickly.

"Who will not be proud to know that India has become the fifth largest economy from 10 in over nine years,” Mr. Modi said.

“Today every rating agency is saying that India is a bright spot. You invest in India now. This is the opportune time. Those who invest early will reap benefits,” Modi added.

Besides, he also made announcements on?the opening of a new Indian consulate in Marseille and the five-year-long post-study work visas for Indian students doing masters in France.

Describing people-to-people connect as a key foundation of the India-France partnership, he also asked the diaspora members to invest in India, noting that global experts are recognising the country's attractiveness as an investment destination and the country is taking rapid strides in development.

His two-day visit to France also holds immense importance in terms of strenthening?military cooperation between the two countries, as India is now all set to acquire 26 new Rafale-M fighter jets for Indian Navy.

The Defence Ministry said that India intended to order 26 more Rafale jets as well as another three Scorpene-class submarines, with the price and other terms still being worked out.?