French President Emmanuel Macron has accepted an invitation to be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on January 26th, according to the country's foreign ministry. The invitation comes as a result of US President Joe Biden's inability to attend the event. The growing ties between France and India have been bolstered by a 25-year plan aimed at deepening cooperation in defense, nuclear energy, and space.
India has expressed its intention to acquire three Scorpene submarines from France's Naval Group and 26 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation SA. These defense deals highlight the strengthening defense partnership between the two nations. They have also paved the way for discussions on joint production of defense equipment and collaboration on small modular nuclear reactors.
The relationship between India and France further blossomed in July when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honor at the Bastille Day military parade in Paris. During the event, Modi expressed India's interest in enhancing cooperation with France in various domains, including defense.
Emmanuel Macron's visit to India as the chief guest for Republic Day signifies the desire of both countries to deepen their political and economic ties. With India being the world's most populated country, Macron aims to forge stronger connections in order to counterbalance China's growing influence in the region.
Trade between France and India has been thriving, with total goods traded reaching approximately $15.8 billion in 2022, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. This trend showcases the expanding economic partnership between the two nations and the potential for further collaboration in various sectors.
This year's Republic Day celebration will mark the sixth time a French leader has attended the event in New Delhi, a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect between France and India. The occasion commemorates the adoption of India's secular constitution in 1950 and serves as a reminder of the shared values that unite the two nations.
Overall, President Macron's participation as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations reinforces the strategic partnership and shared interests between India and France. The visit presents an opportunity to further deepen cooperation in defense, trade, and other key areas, while also signaling a united front against common challenges in the region and beyond.