India, Sept. 7 -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris as a "new milestone" in the cultural relations between India and France.

"This grand Swaminarayan Temple is a new milestone in the cultural relations between India and France," Modi said.

Addressing the gathering remotely, Modi said the occasion reflected India's ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the world as one family.

"Today, this stage has become an awakened platform for the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," he said.

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be associated with the occasion, Modi said he felt emotionally connected to the celebrations despite not being physically pre...