INVC NEWS
New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for France to attend the Bastille Day Parade, which takes place on July 14, the National Day of France. During his visit, PM Modi will also meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and hold bilateral discussions. This visit aims to strengthen strategic, cultural, scientific, educational, and economic ties between India and France, with a focus on reducing dependence on China. PM Modi’s visit to France is significant as he is the second Indian Prime Minister to be invited as the chief guest for France’s National Day, following Manmohan Singh in 2009.
In addition to attending the Bastille Day Parade, PM Modi will meet with the presidents of the French Senate and National Assembly, as well as CEOs of French companies. After his visit to France, PM Modi will travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on July 15, where he will engage in discussions with UAE ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The visit to the UAE aims to further enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries in areas such as energy, education, health, and food security.
The bilateral trade between India and France has increased by approximately $4 billion from 2010 to 2021. Both countries share strategic interests at the global level, and efforts are being made to strengthen business relations between them. France has been a significant strategic partner for India since 1998 when it supported India during its nuclear tests and worked towards lifting sanctions imposed by other Western countries.
The participation of Indian Army soldiers in the Bastille Day Parade has boosted the pride of the French Army. Senior officers from the three wings of the Indian Army have been present in Paris for parade rehearsals. This year, the soldiers of the Punjab Regiment will lead the parade, accompanied by the band of the Rajputana Rifles playing the tune of ‘Saare Jahan Se Accha…’ with pipes and drums. The Punjab Regiment soldiers have fought in various parts of Europe during both World Wars.
Overall, PM Modi’s visit to France and the UAE is expected to strengthen bilateral relations and promote cooperation on various fronts between India and these countries.
