In a diplomatic move strengthening the bond between India and France, President Emmanuel Macron has received an invitation to attend India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2024, according to reliable sources. This invitation comes after the leaders met in July during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, where he attended the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honour.
The July visit marked the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. A notable highlight was the participation of a 241-member tri-service Indian armed forces contingent in the Bastille Day Parade, led by a military band. The Indian Army contingent, headed by the Punjab Regiment, showcased the strong ties between the two nations.
During the parade, the Indian military contingent marched to the tune of ‘Sare Jahan Se Accha,’ and a squadron of Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale fighters, including those from the 101 Squadron from Hashimara, featured in a flypast over the Champs-Elysees. The Bastille Day celebrations symbolize democratic values, echoing the central themes of both the Indian and French constitutions.
President Macron reciprocated the visit by coming to India in September for the G20 Summit held under India’s Presidency. During the bilateral meeting in Delhi on September 10, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi affirmed their commitment to elevating India-France relations to new heights. Discussions included strengthening defence cooperation, with a focus on the Defence Industrial Roadmap.
Notably, this will be the sixth time a French leader has been invited as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations. Prior to President Macron, former French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac and former Presidents Valery Giscard d’Estaing, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Francois Hollande have graced the occasion.
India and France, strategic partners for a quarter-century, collaborate closely across various sectors such as defence, space, civil nuclear, trade, investment, education, culture, and people-to-people ties. The invitation to President Macron underscores the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Also read: https://newseense.com/indias-exclusive-black-tigers-a-distinct-genetic-marvel-in-odishas-similipal/
-
-
-
-
