Macron Extends Warm Invitation to Indians for Significant Events in France: ‘Our Friends, You Are Welcome!’
On Saturday, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed gratitude to India for the hospitable reception extended to him during his visit as the chief guest for Republic Day festivities. Additionally, he extended an invitation to the people of India to visit France for various significant events this year, including the Summer Olympics commencing on July 26.
Expressing gratitude, Macron stated on social media that he appreciates the warm reception in Jaipur and Delhi from the people of India.
France is set to host various significant events this year, including commemorations for the Second World War, the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, and the Francophonie summit. French President Macron extended a warm welcome to the entire world, expressing anticipation for these events. Additionally, Macron, accompanied by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, visited the historic Dargah Nizamuddin Aulia in Delhi on Friday evening. The mausoleum, dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Nizamuddin Aulia, is a focal point of Sufi culture in India. Macron spent over half an hour at the centuries-old shrine, and videos of his visit circulated widely on social media.
Macron served as the main guest during the 75th Republic Day festivities at Kartavya Path in Delhi. Prior to this, President Droupadi Murmu welcomed the French President at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and organized a banquet in his honor. Expressing her welcome, she highlighted the historical significance of the leaders from both nations being honored guests at each other’s consecutive National Day parades and celebrations, considering it a powerful symbol of the strong partnership and deep friendship between the two countries.
During his visit to Jaipur, Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations and global issues, expressing significant concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, particularly in the Red Sea.
In a joint statement released late on Friday night, the two leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and underscored the necessity of adhering to international maritime laws.
The statement highlighted that Modi and Macron reiterated the utmost significance of preserving freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and respecting international laws related to maritime activities. Their detailed conversation aimed at coordinating efforts in the region to address these concerns.