Less than two weeks before French President Emmanuel Macron’s scheduled visit to India, his diplomatic advisor, Emmanuel Bonne, held discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, to address bilateral issues and global developments of shared concern. Bonne’s visit to New Delhi is aimed at finalizing various aspects of President Macron’s upcoming trip, where he will be the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26. The discussions emphasized the strong convergence between India and France on multiple issues, and Jaishankar expressed anticipation for President Macron’s State visit during Republic Day 2024. The diplomatic exchange also extended congratulations to Stephane Sejourne, France’s new Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, with Jaishankar expressing readiness to collaborate for further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations, in line with the goals set by their leaders. The invitation to President Macron underscores the growing ties between India and France across various domains, including defense, security, clean energy, trade, investment, and new technologies. In July of the previous year, India’s defense ministry approved the acquisition of 26 Rafale (marine) jets from France, primarily intended for deployment on the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. France has already responded to India’s initial tender for the purchase of these jets.
