Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets President Droupadi Murmu and French President Emmanuel Macron at Kartavya Path upon their arrival for the Republic Day celebration today.
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu today received Emmanuel Macron, the President of France at Rashtrapati Bhavan, and also hosted a banquet in his honour.
Welcoming Macron at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Murmu said that the leaders of the two countries being guests of honour in each other’s successive National Day parade and celebrations was a historic moment, and a symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, thanked the French President for being a part of India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations today and said his presence will add great momentum to India-France ties. Macron extended his “warmest” wishes to the people of India on the occasion of Republic Day. “Happy and proud to be with you,” he stated.
President Murmu said that while the shared values of Liberty, Equality, Fraternity and Justice connect our two great Republics, the bonds between our people are even deeper. She added that people have inspired each other with our thoughts and ideals, and we have enriched each other through philosophy, literature, art, scriptures, languages, and more.
The President recalled that she had seen for herself, the influence of French culture in the vibrant heritage of Puducherry, and the deep links with the Indian diaspora of France. She said Puducherry is indeed, a living bridge between France and India.
Murmu expressed satisfaction that both sides have outlined an ambitious vision of partnership for India’s Amrit Kaal, and added that this visit has “strengthened our resolve to realise this vision”.
She was confident that the comfort of the India-France friendship and the strength of their partnership would illuminate the path forward.
– global bihari bureau
