India and France have had a longstanding strategic partnership that has been in place for 25 years. The relationship between the two countries has been marked by mutual respect and cooperation in various fields, including defense, science, and culture. As a symbol of the strong bond between the two nations, French President Emmanuel Macron invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend this year's Bastille Day Parade in Paris as the Guest of Honour, and PM Modi has accepted the invitation.
The Bastille Day Parade is an annual military parade held on July 14 to celebrate the French National Day. It is a grand event that showcases the might of the French armed forces and attracts dignitaries from all over the world. This year, the Indian armed forces contingent will participate in the Parade alongside their French counterparts, which is a testament to the close relationship between the two nations.
The official statement released after the invitation was accepted by PM Modi highlights the importance of this visit. It is expected to usher in a new phase of the India-France Strategic Partnership, setting new and ambitious goals for cooperation in strategic, cultural, scientific, academic, and economic fields. This includes cooperation in a wide range of industries, indicating the comprehensive nature of the partnership.
The relationship between India and France has been built on shared values of democracy, pluralism, and a commitment to global peace and security. France has been a strong supporter of India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, and the two nations have worked closely on issues related to climate change and counterterrorism. India and France also have a strong economic relationship, with French companies investing heavily in India and the two countries collaborating in sectors such as defense, aerospace, and renewable energy.
PM Modi's visit to France for the Bastille Day Parade is expected to further strengthen the ties between the two nations. It will provide an opportunity for both leaders to discuss issues of mutual interest and explore new avenues of cooperation. The presence of an Indian contingent in the Parade will also showcase the growing capabilities of the Indian armed forces and highlight India's commitment to international peace and security.
In conclusion, the India-France Strategic Partnership has been a model for cooperation between two nations with different histories and cultures. The invitation extended to PM Modi to attend the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honour is a reflection of the close relationship between India and France. The visit is expected to mark a new phase in the partnership and set the stage for deeper and more meaningful cooperation between the two nations.
