The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, is set to be the Chief Guest at Indias Republic Day celebrations on January 26, marking the 75th year of the event. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the invitation to President Macron for the prestigious occasion.Long-standing India-France Strategic PartnershipThe Ministry of External Affairs confirmed President Macrons visit, highlighting the robust and strategic partnership between India and France. This years Republic Day will not only celebrate the 75th anniversary but also commemorate the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership.A Special Occasion: Sixth French Leader as Chief GuestPresident Macrons presence marks the sixth instance of a French leader being the Chief Guest at Indias Republic Day celebrations. Notable predecessors include former Prime Minister Jacques Chirac and former Presidents Valery Giscard dEstaing, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Francois Hollande.Tri-Service Indian Armed Forces Contingent at Bastille Day ParadeThe announcement comes after PM Modis participation as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade in Paris on July 14, 2023. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership, a 241-member tri-service Indian armed forces contingent, led by a military band, participated in the Parade.Deepening Ties: Recent Bilateral MeetingsEarlier this year, President Macron visited India in September to attend the G20 Summit under Indias Presidency. A bilateral meeting between President Macron and PM Modi underscored their commitment to elevating India-France relations across multiple sectors.Key Areas of CooperationIndia and France enjoy collaboration in diverse fields, including defence, space, civil nuclear, trade, investment, education, culture, and people-to-people ties. The upcoming Republic Day celebrations are expected to further strengthen the bonds between the two nations.Symbolic Flypast by Indian Air ForceDuring the Bastille Day Parade, the Indian military contingent showcased their prowess by marching to the tune of Sare Jahan Se Accha. The Indian Air Force also featured Rafale jets from the 101 Squadron during an impressive flypast over the Champs-Elysees.Celebrating Milestones and Reinforcing TiesThe Republic Day celebrations in 2024 promise to be a historic milestone, commemorating 75 years of Indias republic status and a quarter-century of the strategic partnership between India and France. President Macrons presence symbolises the enduring friendship and shared values between the two nations.
