French President Emmanuel Macron will be the Chief guest on 75th Republic Day Parade celebrations this year. After the US President Joe Biden expressed unavailability to make his trip to India President Macron accepted invitation when approached, shows a high mutual trust and solid bond between two countries. It will be the sixth time when a French leader will be the chief guest at the Republic day celebrations. Last July Prime Minister Narendra Modi was guest of honour at the Bastille Day Parade. President Macron also attended G-20 Summit held in India in September
This year also the marks the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic partnership. Both countries had elevated their diplomatic relationship to strategic partnership in 1998.They have a ambitious roadmap for the next 25 years of strategic partnership. France is also the second biggest arms supplier to India. After the acquisition of Rafale Jets for the Indian Air Force a new deal for 26 new Rafale marine fighter jets and three Scorpene class submarines developed by France and Spain has been finalised. The two sides have also finalized a futuristic agenda that includes jointly developing low and medium power modular nuclear reactors. They have also plans to jointly develop jet engines and helicopters. France has emerged as one of India’s closest partners in Europe. France also backs India’s bid to become a permanent member of Security Council. In President Macron’s coming visit there will be an opportunity for the bilateral talks and review in the progress made in space , climate change, Security, nuclear technology and robust supply chains.
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