News Desk, Kolkata :
French President Emmanuel Macron Arrives in India as Chief Guest for Republic Day Celebration
In a momentous celebration of democracy, French President Emmanuel Macron graced India as the chief guest on Republic Day. Touching down first in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, President Macron embarked on a journey through the vibrant city and visited the iconic Amber Fort. The historical significance of the fort resonates as it was in 1734 that Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh extended an invitation to two French Jesuit priests from Chandannagar, Hughle (now Haldia), marking an early connection between France and India.
From Jaipur, President Macron’s itinerary led him to the “Pink City’s” another marvel, the City Palace. Subsequently, the distinguished guest proceeded to the World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, a testament to India’s rich historical astronomy.
In the spirit of bilateral cooperation, President Macron is set to engage in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cementing the ties between New Delhi and Paris. This rendezvous comes after their meeting in France last July, where Prime Minister Modi participated in France’s Bastille Day celebration, underlining the robust diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The evening is anticipated to witness a joint press conference, a platform where both leaders will address the media. This marks President Macron’s final bilateral meeting with a significant global leader during his term as the French President, adding another layer of significance to this engagement.
President Macron’s visit on India’s 75th Republic Day makes him the fifth French head of state to be the chief guest on this prestigious occasion. The list includes Valéry Giscard d’Estaing (1980), Jacques Chirac (1998), Nicolas Sarkozy (2008), and François Hollande (2016). Additionally, Jacques Chirac, who later became the French President, attended the Republic Day celebrations in 1976 as the Prime Minister of France.
Beyond the diplomatic agenda, the visit holds immense importance amid the backdrop of global challenges. France has been a consistent supporter of India, standing by its side in various international forums. Notably, during the tumultuous times of 2020, amidst the India-China border tensions, France assured India of military assistance, showcasing the strength of their strategic partnership.
As the two leaders engage in discussions, Kashmir issue, nuclear proliferation debates, and collaboration amidst rising tensions with China might feature prominently. France’s consistent support for India, especially during critical moments, establishes the foundation for a strong and enduring friendship.
President Macron’s two-day visit is expected to further strengthen the bonds between the two nations. Beyond diplomatic discussions, the cultural and historical ties that bind India and France will be celebrated, resonating not only in the political corridors but also in the hearts of people from both nations.
In this epoch of global challenges, the Macron-Modi meeting becomes more than just a diplomatic affair; it symbolizes solidarity, collaboration, and the shared commitment of two diverse nations towards a future of peace and prosperity. The French President’s visit, coinciding with India’s Republic Day, becomes a testament to the enduring values of democracy that both nations hold dear.
As the sun sets on this historic day, the joint press conference will echo promises of enhanced collaboration, diplomatic camaraderie, and the warmth that transcends borders. President Macron’s visit to India, on its 75th Republic Day, marks not only a diplomatic milestone but also a celebration of the enduring spirit of friendship between the two nations.
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