French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the French community at the Embassy of France in Delhi during his visit to India. President Macron, who was invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the Chief Guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations. This visit marks the culmination of the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Strategic Partnership between India and France.
The meeting at the French Embassy in India allowed President Macron to connect with the French community residing in the national capital. The Embassy of France in India confirmed that the President also addressed the community at the Resident of France in New Delhi.
The visit by President Macron strengthens the bilateral relationship between India and France. It follows Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France in July 2023 on its National Day. Throughout 2023, the two leaders have engaged in high-profile meetings, including their participation at the COP 28 Summit in Dubai, the G20 Leaders’ Summit, and the G7 Summit in Hiroshima. President Macron was also the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Celebrations in France.
President Macron’s visit to India as the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations marks the sixth time a French leader has been invited for this prestigious role. 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.
The previous visit by Prime Minister Modi to France was a significant display of the strong bonds between the two nations. The visit included a tri-service Indian armed forces contingent marching at Champs-Elysees and a flypast by Rafale jets. Prime Minister Modi received the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, a prestigious recognition in France, and attended a State Banquet at the Louvre Museum and a private dinner at Elysee. He also addressed the Indian community at La Seine Musicale.
During President Macron’s visit, discussions between the French President and Prime Minister Modi took place in Jaipur. They covered various topics, including bilateral ties and global issues.
President Macron’s visit to India and his engagement with the French community further strengthens the relations between the two countries. The visit serves as a testament to the deep and enduring partnership between India and France in areas such as strategic cooperation, trade, and cultural exchanges. As both nations continue to collaborate on various fronts, the visit marks another milestone in their longstanding friendship and shared values.
