| 14 July 2023
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a two-day official visit to France, joined President Emmanuel Macron in celebrating the French National Day as the Guest of Honour in Paris on Friday. The French National Day, commonly known as Bastille Day, holds immense significance in the French culture as it commemorates the historic storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution in 1789.
The highlight of the celebrations is the renowned Bastille Day parade, and this year, India will have a notable presence. A 269-member contingent from the Indian tri-services, representing the army, navy, and air force, will proudly participate in the parade. The inclusion of Indian troops in such a prominent event is a testament to the growing bilateral ties between India and France.
Adding further excitement to the occasion, three Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will take part in the flypast alongside their French counterparts. This joint flypast serves as a symbol of the deepening defense cooperation between the two nations. The inclusion of the Rafale jets, which were acquired by the Indian Air Force in recent years, not only showcases India's military prowess but also underscores the strategic partnership between India and France in the realm of defense.
Prime Minister Modi's presence as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day celebrations demonstrates the close diplomatic relations between India and France. The visit not only serves as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties but also highlights the shared values of democracy and liberty that both nations hold dear.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with President Macron, focusing on various aspects of the Indo-French relationship, including trade, defense cooperation, and climate change. France has been a key partner for India in multiple sectors, and the visit aims to further enhance collaboration and explore new avenues for cooperation.
The Prime Minister's participation in the Bastille Day celebrations also holds significance in the backdrop of India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). It provides a platform for India to showcase its global standing and garner support from the international community, including France.
As the Indian tri-services contingent marches through the iconic Champs-Élysées avenue during the Bastille Day parade, they will not only pay tribute to the French Revolution but also symbolize the strong bond between India and France. The joint participation of Indian and French fighter jets in the flypast serves as a powerful symbol of collaboration and shared values.
The presence of Prime Minister Modi as the Guest of Honour at the French National Day celebrations elevates the significance of India-France relations and underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations. It highlights the growing global stature of India and showcases the shared commitment to democracy, liberty, and cooperation between India and France.
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