India and France Collaborate on UPI Payments: Boosting Digital Transactions

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a mobile-based payment system in India that allows people to make payments anytime using a virtual payment address. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India and France have agreed to use UPI for payments, starting from the famous Eiffel Tower.

PM Modi expressed his happiness about the social transformation brought by digital platforms like UPI in India. He highlighted the collaboration between India and France in this area and mentioned that they have decided to deploy UPI in France. He noted that Indian tourists visiting France will now be able to make payments in Indian Rupees using UPI at the Eiffel Tower. PM Modi shared this information while addressing the Indian community at La Seine Musicale in Paris.

The UPI system is based on mobile technology and allows people to make payments round the clock. Earlier this year, UPI and Singapore's 'PayNow' signed an agreement to facilitate cross-border transactions between the two countries. The recent announcement of UPI usage in France is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade and tourism between India and France.

PM Modi emphasized the long-standing cooperation between India and France in archaeological missions. He mentioned that the partnership in the digital infrastructure sector strengthens the ties between the two nations. PM Modi also referred to a study by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that recognizes India's efforts to end extreme poverty, which benefits not only the country but also humanity as a whole.

PM Modi's visit to France

PM Modi also paid tribute to Indian soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives on French soil a hundred years ago, defending the pride of France. He mentioned that the Punjab Regiment, one of the regiments that participated in the war, will be part of France's National Day Parade.

Attending the National Day Parade alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi described it as a symbol of the unbreakable friendship between India and France. He emphasized the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries as the foundation of their partnership.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Paris for a two-day official visit and received a ceremonial welcome at the airport, where he was greeted by French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne. This visit signifies the importance of the relationship between India and France and their commitment to strengthening ties in various sectors, including digital payments and cultural exchange.

Overall, the decision to accept UPI payments in France marks a significant step towards promoting digital transactions, enhancing bilateral relations, and providing greater convenience to Indian tourists visiting France. It demonstrates the growing importance of digital infrastructure in strengthening ties between countries and the positive impact of India's initiatives on both its citizens and the global community.