French President Macron to grace 75th Republic Day celebrations as chief guest
New Delhi, January 26 – French President Emmanuel Macron is set to be the chief guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations today, marking a unique reciprocal exchange following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France on its National Day in July 2023. President Macron’s visit culminates the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Strategic Partnership between India and France.
The bilateral relationship between India and France has been reinforced through a series of high-profile meetings between the two leaders throughout 2023. Their interactions took place on various global platforms, including the COP 28 Summit in Dubai, the G20 Leaders’ Summit, and the G7 Summit in Hiroshima. President Macron also served as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Celebrations in France in July 2023.
President Macron’s visit as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebration marks the sixth time a French leader has been invited to this prestigious event. The tradition began in 1976 with President Jacques Chirac, followed by Valery Giscard d’Estaing in 1980, Nicolas Sarkozy in 2008, and Francois Hollande in 2016.
During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France for Bastille Day in July 2023, the two nations showcased their strong bonds through symbolic gestures and substantial agreements. The visit included a tri-service Indian armed forces contingent marching at Champs-Elysees and a spectacular flypast by Rafale jets. Prime Minister Modi was honored with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour and several crucial agreements and announcements were made, covering areas such as museum cooperation, digital technologies, civil aviation, and space.
Upon his arrival at the Jaipur International Airport, President Macron was received by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma.
In Jaipur, President Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions, exchanging perspectives on a wide range of issues. Prime Minister Modi expressed his pride in President Macron’s presence at the Republic Day celebrations and emphasized that it strengthens the ties between the two nations.
President Macron’s visit symbolizes the deep-rooted friendship and collaboration between India and France and adds another significant chapter to their shared history.
As this momentous day unfolds, the world witnesses the celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day, highlighted by the participation of French President Emmanuel Macron, reinforcing the robust partnership between the two nations.
