INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (13) reached Paris, France, on a two-day visit, the highlight of which will be his attendance at the Bastille Day celebrations on Friday (14) as the guest of honour. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport.
The Indian leader will also hold talks with French president Emmanuel Macron and the visit will focus on strengthening the two countries' ties in various key domains, including defence, space and infrastructure. Modi's visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership and the Indian prime minister vowed to ensure that the momentum of the ties continues for the next 25 years.
Announcing his arrival in Paris, Modi tweeted both in English and French along with pictures, "Landed in Paris. Looking forward to boosting India-France cooperation during this visit. My various programmes today include an interaction with the Indian community later in the evening."
On Thursday, Modi was set to visit French prime minister Elisabeth Borne, who received him at the airport, and the president of the French senate, Gerrad Larcher.
Later, he will speak at an Indian community event at the iconic La Seine Musicale on the Île Seguin island on the Seine river in the French capital. Modi will also take part in a private dinner hosted by Macron at his Elysee Palace residence.
Ahead of his departure for France, Modi said in a statement, "This year marks the 25th anniversary of our strategic partnership. Rooted in deep trust and commitment, our two countries cooperate closely across various domains including defence, space, civil nuclear, blue economy, trade, investment, education, culture and people to people ties. We also work together on regional and global issues."
India's Defence Acquisition Council under its defence ministry cleared the process for purchasing 26 Rafale jets and three Scorpene-class submarines from France. The final nod will come from the cabinet committee on security after negotiations conclude.
The Indian tri-services will also play an integral part of the Bastille Day celebrations. Ahead of the parade, the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force contingent also held practice sessions.
A 269-member contingent of the Indian armed forces will march alongside their French counterparts.
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