PM Modi participates in Bastille Day parade in France with Macron, India's marching contingent, flypast by IAF's Rafale jets wows crowds

Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day military parade in France. The visit solidified high-profile defence deals between India and France

PM Modi attends Bastille
Day celebrations

Prime Minister Modi and President Emmanuel Macron witnessed the parade as French and Indian soldiers marched down Paris' Champs-Elysees avenue. The spectacle showcased the strong bilateral ties between the two nations

The Indian and French
Soldiers

The parade featured a fly-past of French-made Rafale fighter jets that India had purchased in 2015. This demonstration highlighted the advanced defence capabilities and technological cooperation between India and France

The Rafale fly-past 

An Indian tri-services marching contingent garnered attention and impressed the crowds during the French National Day celebrations. Their participation showcased the discipline and professionalism of the Indian armed forces

Indian tri-service march

The Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jets participated in the fly-past alongside French jets, symbolising the shared commitment to defence cooperation and joint exercises between the two countries

France-India defence
partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to France for their strong and trusted partnership, emphasising India's commitment to a peaceful and sustainable planet. The statement underscored the shared values and common goals of both nations

Friendship and trust
between India and France

In a momentous ceremony, French President Emmanuel Macron presented Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the prestigious "Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour", the highest accolade in France. This distinguished honour reflects the immense regard and appreciation for Prime Minister Modi's notable achievements and significant contributions, said Macron

'Grand Cross of the
Legion of Honour'

The Indian tri-services contingent, led by Cdr Vrat Baghel, marched to the tune of 'saare jahan se achcha' and also participated in the flypast. Their participation showcased the cultural diversity and military prowess of India

‘Saare Jahan Se Achcha’

The Bastille Day parade, which commemorates the French Revolution, is a significant event for France, and this year's parade showcased the cooperation between India and France. The joint participation symbolised the shared values of liberty, equality, and fraternity

The significance of
Bastille Day parade

The presence of Prime Minister Modi and the successful participation of Indian contingents and Rafale jets in the parade highlighted the deepening friendship and cooperation between India and France. The event served as a platform to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster mutual understanding

India-France ties