Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been given a rare honor as the guest of honor at the French National Day, following in the footsteps of the last dignitary invited, US President Donald Trump, in 2017. As a special gesture, India’s tri-services contingent, including IAF aircraft, will participate in the Bastille Day Parade, which commemorates the “Storming of the Bastille Prison” during the French Revolution in 1789.
PM Modi’s visit to France on July 13 and 14 will mark his fifth trip to the country. The French National Day, also known as Bastille Day, holds significant importance in French history and culture.
The Bastille Day Parade is a prominent highlight of the celebrations and is comparable to India’s Republic Day Parade. However, it is uncommon for foreign leaders to be invited as guests of honor for Bastille Day, with the last occurrence being in 2017 when the US President was invited. It is even rarer to have foreign marching contingents and aircraft participate in the parade.
The timing of PM Modi’s visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership. France is an important strategic partner of India and one of the earliest ones. There is a strong personal bond between PM Modi and President Emmanuel Macron, and the visit will include multiple meetings and special gestures by President Macron, including a private dinner, joint meetings with CEOs, and hosting a state banquet at the renowned Louvre Museum on Bastille Day.
During the visit, PM Modi will interact with the entire political leadership of France, including President Macron, Prime Minister Borne, and the presidents of the Senate and National Assembly. Trade and economy will be a significant focus, with a CEO Forum consisting of prominent figures from both Indian and French sides. Additionally, the visit will cover collaborations on bilateral and global issues.
PM Modi will also engage with influential French personalities and participate in events alongside the Indian community at the prestigious La Seine Musicale.
