France Confers Legion of Honour on Sunil Bharti Mittal

Convener News Desk

NEW DELHI, October 29: France has conferred its highest civilian honour, the National Order of the Legion of Honour, on Bharti Enterprises founder and chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal for his contribution to strengthening India-France economic ties and his work in telecommunications, digital infrastructure and satellite communications.

Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, presented Mittal with the insignia of Chevalier (Knight) during a ceremony at the French Residence on October 28.

The French Embassy said the honour recognised Mittal’s longstanding role in promoting business relations between the two countries through partnerships and investments across sectors.

Addressing the gathering, Mathou highlighted Mittal’s associations with French multinational insurance group AXA and telecom equipment maker Alcatel-Lucent, as well as his investment in French satellite operator Eutelsat.

The ambassador said these engagements had contributed to strengthening economic ties and supporting France’s ambitions in the satellite communications sector.

Accepting the honour, Mittal said his association with France began in 1992, when Compagnie Générale des Eaux partnered with Bharti to introduce mobile telephony in India. He said the relationship continued through his role as vice-chairman of Eutelsat.

Mittal expressed gratitude to French President Emmanuel Macron and said he remained committed to deepening economic cooperation between India and France.

The honour comes as the two countries continue to expand cooperation in space and digital technologies under their Special Global Strategic Partnership. Mittal’s involvement with Eutelsat places him among the business leaders engaged in the growing relationship between the two countries.