Swaraj Announces Indian War Memorial In France

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj has announced the construction of an Indian Armed Forces Memorial at Villers-Guislain in France. It is being made to highlight the contribution of the soldiers of undivided India to the freedom of France, reported Indian Express.

India will construct Indian Armed Forces memorial in town which is located 200kms away from Paris, to highlight India's contribution to freedom of France in World War 1. This will be 2nd such memorial in Europe: EAM Sushma Swaraj while addressing Indian community in Paris #France pic.twitter.com/Xgu9UDvQO0

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2018

Why is it important?

Villers-Guislain is located in the northern part of France, 200 km from Paris. The town had seen a huge battle during World War I. British Indian Cavalry regiments were also involved in it.

The town was liberated on September 29, 2018.

This will be the second such memorial in Europe, Swaraj said in a report by IE.

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Swaraj's France Visit

The External Affairs Minister is on a four-nation tour. Swaraj arrived in Paris from Rome on June 18.

During Swaraj's visi,t a bilateral Letter of Intent was signed between India and France. The pointers in the agreement include cooperation in the field of conservation of pre-historic ornate caves and rock shelters. It has been signed between the ministry of culture of India and the ministry of culture of France.

The agreement will aid conservation efforts at the Bhimbetka caves in India and the caves of Lascaux and Chauvet in France.

Addressing the Indian diaspora at a reception organised for her, Swaraj said Indians in every part of the world carry India and it' civilisational ethos in their heart.  She also addressed a gathering of Indian students.

The minister also handed over certificates of appreciation to Indian community organisation and individuals who have contributed to the Swacch Bharat Kosh, reported TOI.

The Union minister also attended a ceremony held to name the Indian Culture Centre in the memory of Swami Vivekanand.

Swaraj also visited the India House, Maison de l'Inde. She marked the golden jubilee of the building by unveiling a plaque. India House is a hostel for Indian students in the University City of Paris.

Read Also : Sushma Swaraj’s Europe Trip To Focus On Strategic & Trade Connects

Kriti Dwivedi is an intern with SheThePeople.Tv