What makes the India-France ‘strategic partnership’ tick

The collaboration, transitioning from governmental sectors to commercial and civilian arenas, demonstrates a level of maturity and resilience.

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Special Bond: French President Macron Attends India’s Republic Day

French President Emmanuel Macron, marking his third visit to India, served as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations, reinforcing the nations’ strategic partnership. This visit, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July 2023 visit to France, underscores the special relationship between the two countries. Initially, United States President Joe Biden was invited, but his inability to attend led to Macron’s enthusiastic participation, emphasizing the strong personal ties between Macron and Modi and the significance they place on the bilateral relationship.

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Landmark Moments: French President Chirac’s Republic Day Visit in 1998 and India’s Strategic Partnership

In the pivotal year of 1998, during India’s Republic Day celebrations, French President Jacques Chirac served as the chief guest, marking the establishment of India’s first Strategic Partnership. Chirac made a significant declaration, emphasizing that India’s exclusion from the global nuclear order was an anomaly that needed correction. This partnership faced a critical test when India conducted nuclear tests in May 1998, asserting its status as a nuclear weapon state. Notably, France distinguished itself by being the first among the P-5 nations to engage in a dialogue with India, demonstrating a deep understanding of India’s security concerns. Furthermore, France became the initial P-5 country to endorse India’s bid for a permanent seat in an expanded and reformed UN Security Council.

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