Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on the official visit to France and UAE on July 13-14. Notably, PM Modi will be the guest of honour at Frances Bastille Day celebrations on July 14, the countrys Independence Day, which marks the inception of the French Revolution almost 200 years ago.Tri-service contingent to participate in Bastille Day paradeWith Indias three-service contingent ready to participate in the Bastille Day parade in France, Indian Navy Commander Prateek Kumar said on Wednesday that being part of the event is a great feeling.Commander Kumar, who is part of the Indian armed forces contingent, said the Navys indigenous destroyer INS Chennai, which was part of bilateral naval exercise Exercise Varuna is also participating in the parade.“This is a great feeling for not only the armed forces but for the entire people of India. We are happy that we are here as part of a tri-service contingent from the Army, Navy, and Air Force,” he said.What to expect from PM Modis visitDuring his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet with the leaders of Frances National Assembly, Senate, and Prime Minister. In addition, PM Modi is anticipated to meet with notable French figures, CEOs of various corporations, and members of the Indian Diaspora.India is the key buyer for French arms, including Dassaults Rafale fighter jets. According to the sources, it is likely that India will extend its defence procurement from France during this visit. The purchase of an additional 26 Rafale jets for use on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier is also anticipated. Further, three Scorpene-class submarines, built in collaboration with France, are also slated to augment Indias naval capabilities.In light of anticipated future challenges from China, Indias northern neighbour, is modernising its armed forces with the acquisition of these defence resources. During PM Modis meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, defence cooperation between India and France is anticipated to come up frequently.Agenda of visit to UAEAfter France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Abu Dhabi on July 15. According to the updates from the Ministry of External Affairs, PM will meet Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi.It is to be noted here that India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has been steadily strengthening and Prime Ministers visit will be a good time to identify ways to take this forward in various domains such as energy, education, healthcare, food security, fintech, defence, and culture.It will be a good time to talk about the cooperation on global issues, particularly in the context of UAEs Presidency of COP-28 of the UNFCCC and Indias G20 Presidency in which UAE is a Special Invitee.
