French President Emmanuel Macron participated as the chief guest in India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations, held at Kartavya Path. This marked the sixth instance of a French leader being the chief guest at the grand event. Macron, along with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, members of the Union Cabinet, foreign diplomats, and various dignitaries, witnessed the impressive military parade and cultural performances.
Expressing his gratitude, Macron posted a video of the French band and military contingents on social media, captioned, “A great honor for France. Thank you, India.” Prime Minister Modi reciprocated, thanking Macron for the French participation, acknowledging their contribution to making the parade memorable.
In response to the warm welcome, Macron extended his wishes to PM Modi and the people of India on Republic Day, emphasizing the honor and friendship symbolized by his invitation. He expressed excitement about consolidating the exceptional partnership between the two nations, starting with bringing the youth together.
Earlier discussions between Macron and PM Modi in Jaipur laid the groundwork for enhancing bilateral ties. Macron’s visit also featured a 95-member marching contingent and a 30-member band from France participating in the parade. Notably, two Rafale fighters and an Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft from the French air force added to the celebrations.
The Republic Day tradition of inviting global leaders was disrupted in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Macron’s presence echoed previous notable guests, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in 2020, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in 2019, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2018. The history of distinguished guests includes leaders like Barack Obama, Shinzo Abe, Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, and Jacques Chirac, among others.
Macron’s participation reflects the enduring diplomatic ties between France and India, as both nations look forward to strengthening their collaboration across various domains.
