Modi, Macron Meet in Jaipur to Boost India-France Strategic Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held talks in Jaipur to strengthen India-France strategic cooperation in areas such as defense, security, trade, and clean energy. Macron will be the chief guest at Indias Republic Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Jaipur on Thursday for extensive discussions aimed at bolstering India-France strategic cooperation. The leaders focused on key areas such as defence, security, trade, and clean energy. The meeting took place at a historic 19th-century palace following a roadshow from Jantar Mantar to Hawa Mahal in the Pink City.

Macron to Grace Republic Day Celebrations

President Macron will be the esteemed chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on January 26th at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Prime Minister Modi had previously attended the prestigious Bastille Day Parade in Paris in July 2022.

Strengthening Ties and Shared History

Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed President Macron to India, expressing his delight that the French leader chose to begin his visit in Jaipur, a region rich in culture, heritage, and talented individuals. Modi highlighted the significance of Macron's participation in the Republic Day celebrations, emphasizing its impact on strengthening bilateral ties and adding a notable chapter to the nations' shared history of friendship and collaboration.

Productive Discussions and Bilateral Exchange

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal characterized the Modi-Macron talks as productive, with both leaders exchanging views on a diverse range of bilateral and global issues. The discussions aimed to elevate the India-France strategic partnership to greater heights.

Boosting Cooperation in Key Areas

During their meeting at Taj Rambagh Palace, Prime Minister Modi and President Macron primarily focused on enhancing cooperation in defence, trade, space, and the cyber domain. They also explored avenues to bolster engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

Mega Defence Deals in Sight

President Macron's two-day visit to India coincides with ongoing negotiations between top negotiators from both countries. These negotiations aim to finalize two significant defence deals involving India's procurement of 26 Rafale-M marine version fighter jets and three French-designed Scorpene submarines.

Renewing the France-India Strategic Partnership

The French readout highlighted the deep mutual trust and unwavering friendship that underpin Indo-French ties. President Macron's visit aims to solidify the ambitious renewal of the France-India strategic partnership, as outlined in the Horizon 2047 Roadmap agreed upon by the leaders in Paris on July 14, 2022. This roadmap serves as a blueprint to substantially strengthen ties as the two nations approach the centenary of diplomatic relations.

Exploring Jaipur's Heritage and Cultural Sites

In addition to their official engagements, President Macron visited the majestic Amber Fort, situated on the Aravalli range near Jaipur. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the rich heritage in astronomy represented by Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the shared appreciation for blending ancient wisdom with modern science between India and France.

Focus on Defence, Security, and Trade

Officials indicated that the discussions between the leaders would primarily focus on bolstering cooperation in defence and security, trade, climate change, nuclear energy, and facilitating the mobility of students and professionals.

Macron's Participation in Republic Day Celebrations

On Friday, President Macron will witness India's Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest. A 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band contingent from France will participate in the parade. The celebrations will also feature two Rafale fighter jets and an Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft of the French air force. Notably, the French marching contingent includes six Indian members.

At Home Reception and Meeting with President Murmu

President Macron will attend the At Home reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. He is also scheduled to hold a meeting with President Murmu at 7:10 pm.