French President Emmanuel Macron’s visited India as a Chief Guest for the 75th Republic Day (6th French leader to attend the event) and will join the celebrations on 26th Jan 2024 in New Delhi. Macron’s visit includes sightseeing, meeting with PM Modi, and discussions on the India-France partnership.
Day -1 French President visit at Jaipur (25 Jan 2024)
He arrived at Jaipur (Pink City of India) on 25 Jan 2024 and visited the following sites
- Alberta Hall Museum, the 18th-century astronomical observation site of the Jantar Mantar wherein the Indian Prime Minister also joined him
- French President and Indian Prime minister started a public procession at Badi Chaupar which is at the heart of the Old City of Jaipur. The French president has been gifted a replica of the Shri Ram temple at Ayodhya which was inaugurated on January 22
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- Then they visited the Hawa Mahal Palace, a palace with over 950 windows and also an Unesco World Heritage Site that was built in 1799.
- They stopped there to have tea from a vendor, and payment was done through a UPI transaction, which highlights the importance of digitalization in India.
- I enjoyed the traditional ‘kutchi-ghodi’ folk dance of Rajasthan.
- Then President Macron and Prime Minister Modi held a round of bilateral official discussions at the Hotel Taj Rambagh Palace.
Event planned for January 26th, 2024.
India is gearing up to celebrate its 75th Independence Day on January 26, 2024.
- 7:30 a.m.: The day commences with the unfurling of the national flag, resonating with the national anthem.
- 9:30–10:00 am: Dignitary Arrival and Grand Welcome: President Emmanuel Macron of France, the Chief Guest, receives a ceremonial welcome, marking a significant diplomatic moment during the Republic Day celebrations.
- 10:30 a.m.: Spectacular Parade Commencement:At 10:30 a.m., the main event unfolds with the commencement of the Republic Day parade in front of 77,000 people. . The route will follow Vijay Chowk to Kartavya Path.
Parade Highlights
- Marches by all three armed forces: Witness the disciplined and synchronised movements of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing their dedication and strength.
- Tableaus from Indian states: Each state will present a stunning tableau, depicting its unique culture, traditions, and achievements.
- Daredevil motorcycle stunts: Hold your breath as the Indian Army’s daredevils perform breathtaking motorcycle stunts, pushing the limits of skill and bravery.
- Flypast by fighter jets: Look up to the sky and witness the awe-inspiring flypast by Indian Air Force fighter jets, leaving trails of tricolour smoke in their wake.
Expectations from the Visit of the French President
- French President’s visit holds significant meaning and implications. It signifies the strengthening of diplomatic ties and cooperation between India and France. The visit aims to enhance bilateral relations in various sectors, including trade, defence, technology, and culture. It also provides an opportunity for the leaders of both countries to discuss and address global issues of mutual concern. Macron’s visit highlights the importance of India as a strategic partner for France in the Indo-Pacific region.
The following deals are expected:
- Finalise deals on India procuring 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft from France as well as outline steps on the construction of three submarines in India.
- Discuss the ways to speed up the construction of six nuclear power plants in Jaitapur, in India’s western state of Maharashtra.
- India is building six nuclear power plants with 1,650 megawatts. It is also proposing the construction of the largest clean energy plant with a total capacity of 9,900 MW of electricity, in partnership with France.
- Integration of India’s UPI with France’s Lyra Network for accepting UPI and RuPay Cards in the country
- Breakthrough on the free trade pact between India and the European Union
Furthermore, it fosters people-to-people exchanges and cultural exchanges between the two nations, promoting a deeper understanding and collaboration. Overall, Macron’s visit to India signifies his commitment to further deepening the friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Cover photo Credit: (ANI Photo)