India, Sept. 8 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India-France relations have reached new heights, and this strategic partnership is particularly special because it rests on the solid foundation of long-standing cultural and political ties.

Addressing virtually the inauguration of the Swaminarayan temple in Paris on Sunday, Modi hoped that the grand temple in Paris will stand for centuries as a symbol of cooperation and opportunity between both nations.

"In recent years, relations between India and France have reached new heights. Together with my friend, President (Emmanuel) Macron, both nations are building a Special Global Strategic Partnership," he said.

The prime minister said that from technology, AI, and defence to space a...