French President Emmanuel Macron has touched down in Jaipur, Bharat, marking the commencement of his two-day state visit. The distinguished leader is set to play a pivotal role as the chief guest at the Republic Day Parade 2024.
Upon his arrival at Jaipur International Airport, President Macron received a warm welcome from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. The official Twitter handle of the Ministry of External Affairs shared the moment, expressing a hearty “Bienvenue en Inde!” (Welcome to India).
This visit, extending the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Bharat-France Strategic Partnership, was initiated by an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Macron to be the chief guest at the Republic Day festivities.
The city of Jaipur, known as the pink city, has been adorned with posters featuring both Prime Minister Modi and President Macron in anticipation of their joint tour. The French president is scheduled to explore the historical Amber Fort and engage with artisans, stakeholders in cultural projects, and students during his visit.
The itinerary includes a joint tour of the Pink City by Macron and Modi, covering landmarks such as Jantar Mantar. In the evening, a bilateral meeting is planned at Taj Rambagh Palace. A French armed forces contingent is also participating in the Republic Day parade alongside Indian troops and aviators.
On January 26, President Macron will be present as the chief guest at the Republic Day parade, followed by attendance at the At Home reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a State Banquet hosted by the Hon’ble President of India, H.E. Smt Droupadi Murmu.
Accompanying President Macron is a ministerial delegation, including Stephane Sejourne (Europe and Foreign Affairs), Sebastien Lecornu (Armed Forces), and Rachida Dati (Culture). Additionally, a high-profile business delegation and other eminent personalities, including ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet, are part of the entourage.
President Macron’s state visit holds significance as it reinforces the renewed France-Bharat strategic partnership, as outlined in the “Horizon 2047 Roadmap” established during the leaders’ meeting in Paris on July 14. This marks France’s sixth participation, the highest of any nation, as the chief guest on Bharat’s Republic Day.
Comments