Diplomatic Honor: French President Macron to Grace Republic Day Event in Delhi as Chief Guest

In a significant development, French President Emmanuel Macron is set to be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on January 26, marking the sixth instance of a French leader receiving this honour. The news comes amid reports that US President Joe Biden, also invited, will not be able to travel to New Delhi in January.

The announcement underscores the robust relationship between India and France, with the two nations collaborating closely across various sectors, including defence, space, civil nuclear, trade, investment, education, culture, and people-to-people ties.

The Indo-French ties were highlighted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France in July, where he participated in the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honour. The visit, made at the invitation of President Macron, marked the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France.

A 241-member tri-service Indian armed forces contingent, led by a military band, participated in the Parade, showcasing the strong defence cooperation between the two nations. The Indian Army contingent, led by the Punjab Regiment, and a compliment from the Rajputana Rifles Regiment marched to the patriotic tune of 'Sare Jahan Se Accha.' Additionally, a squadron of Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale fighters, from the 101 Squadron from Hashimara, participated in a flypast over the Champs-Elysees at the Bastille Day Parade, symbolizing the deepening ties between the air forces of both countries.

Related video: French President Emmanuel Macron Invited To Be Chief Guest At Republic Day 2024 | © (News18)

July 14, celebrated as Bastille Day marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution in 1789. This event symbolizes the democratic values of 'Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity,' which are central themes in both the Indian and French constitutions.

French President Macron reciprocated the visit by coming to India in September to attend the G20 Summit under India's Presidency. During this visit, he and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed their commitment to elevating India-France relations to new heights of progress.

In a bilateral meeting on September 10, the leaders discussed a range of topics, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening defence cooperation through partnership in the design and expansion of production in India. They also called for the early finalization of the Defense Industrial Roadmap, reflecting the mutual interest in advancing defence ties.

This upcoming Republic Day celebration with French President Macron as the chief guest is a testament to the enduring nature of the friendship between India and France. The occasion holds historical significance as it marks the sixth time that a French leader will be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations. Notable instances include former French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac in 1976 and 1998, and former Presidents Valery Giscard d'Estaing, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Francois Hollande in the years 1980, 2008, and 2016, respectively.

As preparations unfold for the grand event, the focus is not only on the symbolic significance of the chief guest but also on the potential for further strengthening of bilateral relations. The presence of a world leader of Macron's stature at India's Republic Day celebrations is an opportunity to deepen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.

As diplomatic ties take centre stage, this development also sheds light on the evolving dynamics of global partnerships and the strategic importance of collaboration between nations. The Republic Day celebration is poised to be a platform for showcasing the unity and cooperation between India and France, reflecting their shared values and aspirations for a better world.

कूटनीतिक सम्मान: फ्रांस के राष्ट्रपति मैक्रॉन, दिल्ली में आयोजित गणतंत्र दिवस कार्यक्रम के मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में होंगे।