New Delhi: French President Emmanuel Macron, who is the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day, has arrived in Jaipur as part of his two-day State visit to Bharat. Scheduled to attend the Republic Day Parade 2024, Macron’s visit includes exploring Jaipur’s cultural gems, such as the hilltop fort of Amber, the iconic Hawa Mahal, and the astronomical observation site of Jantar Mantar.
During his stay, Macron is set to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a road show, followed by comprehensive talks at the Taj Rambagh Palace, covering key aspects of the bilateral Bharat-France relationship and various geopolitical challenges.
The itinerary includes a 5:30 pm welcome by PM Modi, a visit to cultural and historical landmarks like Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and the Albert Hall Museum, and a departure for Delhi around 8:50 pm, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
The road show, starting at 6 pm in the Jantar Mantar area, precedes talks between Modi and Macron at 7:15 pm. Discussions are expected to focus on boosting bilateral cooperation in areas such as the digital domain, defense, trade, clean energy, and youth exchanges. Additionally, talks may cover the easing of visa norms for Indian students, and it is anticipated that Bharat’s proposed procurement of 26 Rafale-M (marine version) fighter jets and three Scorpene submarines will be on the agenda.
On Friday, Macron will witness the Republic Day celebrations, featuring a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band from France. The parade will showcase two Rafale fighter jets and an Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft from the French air force.
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