Macron's advisor meets Modi ahead of his Paris trip

In preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Paris, Emmanuel Bonne, the diplomatic advisor to the French President, met with the Prime Minister and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in New Delhi. During the meeting, Bonne updated Modi on the progress of bilateral cooperation between India and France in various areas. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to President Macron for inviting him as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day celebrations on July 14. Modi also mentioned his previous meeting with President Macron in Hiroshima and expressed his eagerness to continue their discussions in Paris, further strengthening the strategic partnership between India and France.

The discussions between Doval and Bonne primarily focused on the preparations for Modi's visit and overall strategic cooperation. This trip holds significance as it marks the first Bastille Day visit by a foreign leader during Macron's current term. Bastille Day, observed on July 14, commemorates the Storming of the Bastille in 1789 during the French Revolution.

A contingent of 269 members from the Indian Armed Forces has already departed for Paris to participate in the Bastille Day parade alongside their French counterparts. The Indian Army contingent, led by Captain Aman Jagtap, consists of 77 marching personnel and 38 band members. The Indian Navy contingent is led by Commander Vrat Baghel, while the Indian Air Force contingent is led by Squadron Leader Sindhu Reddy. The Punjab Regiment, one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army, represents the Army contingent. They have participated in both World Wars and post-independence operations, earning 18 Battle and Theatre Honours during World War I. Accompanying the contingent is the Rajputana Rifles Regiment Band, the senior-most rifle regiment of the Indian Army and recipient of six Victoria Crosses prior to Independence.

As part of the celebrations, three Rafale fighter jets from the Indian Air Force will join French jets in a flypast over the Champs Elysees. France has been an important partner for India in various sectors, including defense, space, and nuclear technology. Progress in these areas is expected to be discussed during the visit, as both countries celebrate 25 years of their strategic partnership. The armies of India and France have been engaged in joint exercises and the sharing of experiences.