Jaipur, (Thestates.news)| Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday discussed ways of addressing the geo-political challenges and vital aspects of India-France ties at a bilateral meeting here on Thursday. Modi later said “his (Macron’s) presence strengthens the ties between our nations”. The discussions encompassed vital aspects of the bilateral India-France relationship and ways of addressing various geopolitical challenges.
Modi also hosted dinner for the French president. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister said, “His presence not only strengthens the ties between our nations but also adds a significant chapter to our shared history of friendship and collaboration”.
“I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, 26th January, in Delhi”, the PM wrote. After arriving in Jaipur, PM Modi and President Macron also held a roadshow in the city. People along the route welcomed Macron during the roadshow. The two leaders visited a tea stall and interacted with each other over a cup of tea. The PM made the payment using UPI and showed Macron how the technology works. He also gifted a model of the Ram templer to the French prez.
Following the roadshow, Modi and the French President visited Hawa Mahal, which was built in 1799.
This was followed by a visit to Jantar Mantar, a solar observatory established by Maharaja Sawai Singh. It has been declared a heritage site by UNESCO in July 2010. Earlier in the day, Macron visited the Azmer Fort, where he was accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari.
Macron arrived in Jaipur in the afternoon to attend the 75th Republic Day 2024 function as chief guest at the National capital on an invitation from Modi. The French President was received by Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. A 33-member band and a 95-member marching contingent will take part in the Republic Day parade. Rafale fighter jets and an Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft of the French Air Force will also participate in the march. The French President will also meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan at around 7:10 p.m. on Friday. (UNI)
PM Modi, French Prez Macron discuss geo-political challenges, bilateral ties
