Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honor at the Bastille Day military parade in Paris on Friday, receiving one of France’s most spectacular accolades. The parade, which showcased French and Indian soldiers marching down the Champs-Elysees avenue, also featured fly-pasts by French-made Rafale fighter jets that India purchased in 2015.
The visit of Prime Minister Modi has also sealed high-profile defense deals between India and France. New Delhi has given initial approval to buy 26 additional Rafale jets for its navy, as well as three Scorpene class submarines, as the two nations seek allies in the Indo-Pacific region. The total value of these purchases is expected to be around 800 billion rupees ($9.75 billion).
The strategic partnership between France and India is crucial for both countries, particularly in the face of China’s growing assertiveness in the Indian Ocean region. France has been one of India’s closest partners in Europe, and their defense ties have deepened over the years, with India relying on French fighter jets for four decades.
However, President Emmanuel Macron’s invitation to Prime Minister Modi has been met with criticism from human rights organizations. These organizations express concerns about the perceived authoritarian nature of Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party and allegations of discrimination against minorities.
Despite the controversies, Macron welcomed Modi at the Elysee Palace for talks and hosted a state banquet at the Louvre Museum. The French president has reserved the honor of attending the Bastille Day military parade for only a few global leaders, having previously invited former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2017.
The visit of Prime Minister Modi not only strengthens the defense collaboration between India and France but also highlights the geopolitical importance of the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries share deep interests in the Indian Ocean and are seeking to counter China’s influence in the region.
Overall, the Bastille Day military parade served as a symbol of the growing partnership between India and France, while also providing an opportunity for both leaders to discuss key issues and further enhance bilateral ties.