”Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Republic Day Chief Guest Emmanuel Macron took part in a grand roadshow in Jaipur, exploring the cultural richness of the city. Macron, the French President and this year’s Republic Day celebrations’ chief guest, touched down in Jaipur for a joint tour with PM Modi, encompassing iconic sites like Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The leaders engaged in a colossal joint roadshow, traversing from Jantar Mantar to Sanganeri Gate, with a pause at Hawa Mahal.
Among the highlights of their visit, Macron visited Amer Fort, where a cultural event unfolded, while the duo toured Jantar Mantar together. The roadshow showcased the vibrant heritage of Jaipur, with a planned stop at Hawa Mahal for a sip of the city’s special masala chai. The dignitaries also had the opportunity to peruse handicraft items, including the renowned blue pottery and inlay work, with transactions conducted via BHIM UPI at the adjacent handicraft kiosks.
A special private dinner for President Macron was organized at the Rambag Palace, adding a touch of regality to their visit. The timing of Macron’s presence is notable, coinciding with ongoing negotiations between the Indian government and France for multi-billion dollar agreements related to fighter jets and submarines for the Indian army. The procurement discussions, including India’s proposed acquisition of 26 Rafale fighter jets and three Scorpion submarines, are expected to be pivotal during bilateral talks.
France holds the status of being India’s second-largest arms supplier, solidifying a longstanding and close partnership spanning decades. Macron’s acceptance of the last-minute invitation for Republic Day celebrations underscores the strength of bilateral relations. The invitation was extended after U.S. President Joe Biden communicated his inability to attend, and it reciprocates PM Modi’s participation as the Guest of Honour at France’s Bastille Day celebrations in July the previous year.”
