French President Emmanuel Macron is set to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations on January 26. This will be the sixth instance of a French leader being invited to the momentous event at Kartavya Path.
The invitation was extended to the French President in view of the Republic Day celebrations that serve as a stage to highlight the country’s diplomatic ties with other nations and showcase the strength of the armed forces.
“As Strategic Partners, India and France share a high degree of convergence on a range of regional and global issues. This year, we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership,” a statement released by Ministry of External Affairs said.
Notably, the Republic Day parade is expected to have an Air Show featuring Rafale Jets, signifying the defence cooperation between India and France.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited to be the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade on 14 July in Paris. President Macron visited India for the G-20 Summit on 8-9 September 2023, the statement added.
Joe Biden Unlikely to Visit India
US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti a few days ago informed that India had extended an invitation to US President Joe Biden to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebration.
However, the visit could not take place due to unknown reasons. The US side has not yet clarified the reason behind declining the invite.
(With PTI inputs)
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