Modi's visit to France, scheduled from July 13-14, comes as an invitation from President Emmanuel Macron, where he will hold the esteemed position of guest of honor at the Bastille Day Parade on July 14.
This invitation is regarded as a significant honor, with the last foreign leader to receive such recognition being former US president Donald Trump in 2017. A contingent from the Indian tri-services will actively participate in the event, adding to the ceremonial significance.
During his visit, Modi will engage in formal talks with President Macron, and the French president will host a state banquet and a private dinner in honor of the Indian Prime Minister, as stated by the external affairs ministry. In addition, Modi has a series of scheduled meetings, including discussions with his French counterpart Élisabeth Borne and the presidents of the Senate and the National Assembly. He will also have opportunities to interact with the Indian diaspora in France, as well as CEOs of Indian and French companies and prominent figures from France.
The visit holds great significance for defense cooperation between India and France, with several agreements expected to be finalized during the visit. These agreements encompass the acquisition of 26 naval variants of the Rafale combat jet or the Rafale-Marine, as well as three Scorpene-class submarines. Another crucial agreement involves the joint development of a fighter jet engine in collaboration with Safran, a French aircraft equipment manufacturer. Moreover, discussions are likely to conclude with a roadmap for defense-industrial cooperation.
It is noteworthy that the Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale combat jets, the acquisition of which was finalized during Modi's previous visit to France in 2015. The newly acquired Rafale M jets are anticipated to serve on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. Additionally, the last of the six Scorpene-class submarines, previously ordered for the Indian Navy, is expected to be commissioned next year after undergoing trials. Furthermore, there are plans for a follow-on order of three more Scorpene submarines equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, enabling them to maintain longer periods of submersion.
Furthermore, this year commemorates the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. The external affairs ministry highlights that Modi's visit will serve as an opportunity to chart the future course of the partnership in diverse sectors, including strategic, cultural, scientific, academic, and economic cooperation.
Following his visit to France, Modi will travel to Abu Dhabi in the UAE on July 15. His discussions with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, will focus on strengthening the India-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership. The visit will encompass exploring avenues for collaboration across various domains such as energy, education, healthcare, food security, fintech, defense, and culture. Additionally, discussions on global issues, particularly in light of the UAE's presidency of COP28 and India's G20 presidency, in which the UAE is a guest country, will also be held during the visit.