JAIPUR: French President Emmanuel Macron is set to make a significant visit to Jaipur today, marking the 75th Republic Day celebrations in India. Invited as the Chief Guest by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Macron will kick off his visit with a tour of the historic Amber Fort. The two leaders will later explore the vibrant Pink City together.
This visit by President Macron is a pivotal moment, concluding the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the India-France Strategic Partnership. Jaipur has been adorned with posters featuring both Prime Minister Modi and President Macron in anticipation of this special occasion.
The French President's itinerary includes participation in the Republic Day parade, where a French armed forces contingent will join Indian troops and aviators in a flypast. In addition to the ceremonial events, Macron plans to engage with artisans, stakeholders in Indo-French cultural projects, and students during his tour of Amber Fort.
Following these activities, Macron will engage in extensive bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi. This visit holds historical significance, as Macron previously visited India in March 2018 and later in September 2023 for the Delhi G20 Summit. Notably, he has also hosted PM Modi in France on four different occasions.
Accompanying Macron on this visit is a ministerial delegation, including Stephane Sejourne (Europe and Foreign Affairs), Sebastien Lecornu (Armed Forces), and Rachida Dati (Culture). A notable presence in the delegation is ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet. Macron's visit marks France's sixth participation as the chief guest at India's Republic Day, a testament to the strong ties between the two nations.
The French armed forces' active participation in the Republic Day parade symbolizes the deepened defense collaboration between India and France. This visit comes several months after PM Modi's visit to Paris for France's Bastille Day on July 14, 2023, further strengthening the diplomatic relations between the two countries.
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