Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Visit France for 2-Day Official Visit
Paris: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a 2-day official visit to France today, accepting an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron. The purpose of his visit is to participate in the National Day function, celebrated on July 14 every year in France.
During his visit, it is expected that contracts will be signed for the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy, as well as the construction of 3 additional Scorpene submarines at the Mumbai shipyard.
Traditionally, foreign leaders are not invited to the National Day ceremony in France. However, special exceptions are made occasionally for close allies. In 2017, US President Donald Trump participated in the ceremony, and now Prime Minister Modi has been invited as a special guest.
This visit holds significance as it marks 25 years of diplomatic relations between India and France. In addition to attending the National Day parade, the tri-army of India will also participate, with soldiers and officials having already traveled to Paris for rehearsals.
The Rafale fighter jets, procured from France for the Indian Air Force, will also be part of the fighter jet adventure held during the celebration.
Indian Navy Commander Prateek Kumar, who is participating in the French National Day Parade, expressed pride in being part of the event. “The relationship between the soldiers of the two countries is historic. It is a great honor to have Prime Minister Modi as a special guest in this event,” he said.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will meet with President Emmanuel Macron to discuss strengthening bilateral relations. They are expected to have talks on defense, space, infrastructure, energy, sports, climate change, education, economy, culture, and science. A report on the 25-year vision of the two countries is also anticipated to be released after the meeting.
In addition to the official meetings, Prime Minister Modi will be hosted by President Macron at the Elysee Palace and the famous Lavre museum. He will also meet with Indian-origin people living in France, as well as CEOs from Indian and French companies.
Furthermore, a deal to procure 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant aircraft carrier is expected to be signed during the visit. Additionally, an agreement will be made to manufacture 3 more Scorpene submarines at Mumbai’s Mazagaon Shipyard under the ‘Make in India’ program, with French technical assistance.
Regarding the recent riots in Paris, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Quadra stated, “The riots in Paris are an internal matter and will not have any impact on Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France.”
After completing his visit to France, Prime Minister Modi will travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the 15th. During his visit to the UAE, he will meet with President Mohammad bin Zayed Nayan and other important leaders to discuss further cooperation in defense, energy, education, health, food security, and culture.