Prime Minister Narendra Modi To Grace Bastille Day Celebrations In France, Strengthening India-France Strategic Partnership
New Delhi, 12th July 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to France, following his historic US tour last month, is anticipated to have a significant impact and yield tangible results.
During his two-day visit, PM Modi will have the honour of being a guest at the Bastille Day celebrations, a momentous occasion in the French calendar. A contingent from the Indian Armed Forces, including the Indian Air Force aircraft, will participate in the festivities.
Bastille Day, also known as French National Day, holds a special place in the hearts of the French people as it commemorates the Storming of the Bastille Prison in 1789 during the French Revolution. The highlight of the celebrations is the Bastille Day Parade, which is comparable to India’s Republic Day Parade.
It is uncommon for foreign leaders to be invited as guests of honour for Bastille Day, with the last occurrence being in 2017 when the US President was invited. Furthermore, it is even rarer for foreign marching contingents and aircraft to take part in the festivities.
Coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership, PM Modi’s visit highlights the significance of France as a key strategic partner for India and one of its earliest partners.
The personal rapport between the two leaders is strong, and President Macron has planned special gestures for PM Modi during the visit. These engagements encompassed several gatherings attended by the prime minister, notably a secluded dinner and a collaborative session involving CEOs. Additionally, President Macron will host a State Banquet for PM Modi at the renowned Louvre Museum on Bastille Day.
PM Modi will engage with the entire political leadership of France, including President Macron, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, and the Presidents of the Senate and National Assembly. Trade and economic matters will receive considerable attention through a CEO Forum consisting of influential figures from both Indian and French sectors.
India seeks not only close collaboration on bilateral issues but also joint efforts on global challenges. PM Modi will also have interactions with prominent French personalities and engage with the Indian community at the prestigious La Seine Musicale.
The Indian Embassy has organized numerous activities, such as the ‘Namaste France’ event earlier in the week, leading up to the Prime Minister’s visit.
Government officials anticipate ambitious outcomes across various areas, including technology, space, defence, geo-strategy, infrastructure, energy, climate action, museology, student mobility, people-to-people exchanges, sports, and culture.
On his return from France, PM Modi will make a brief half-day trip to the UAE on July 14.
