President Droupadi Murmu welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron at an at-home reception held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in celebration of the 75th Republic Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several other dignitaries, graced the event.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar, Lok Sabha speaker OM Birla, and Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Dharmendra Pradhan were among the attendees at the well-attended reception in the front yard of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
President Murmu introduced her French counterpart to fellow dignitaries and engaged in interactions with foreign leaders present at the function.
Expressing his delight, French President Emmanuel Macron stated, "It is with immense pleasure that we are here... to be part of such an important and unique day." President Murmu acknowledged the historic significance of the occasion, highlighting the rare occurrence of leaders from two countries being chief guests at each other's national functions consecutively.
"This is a historic and memorable moment in many ways," said President Murmu. "There can be no better symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership than 14 July 2023 and 26 January."
She further emphasised the unity of two great republics, independent in thought and responsible in policy, standing together before the world. President Murmu expressed confidence that the friendship and partnership between the nations would illuminate their future journey.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu inaugurated the 75th Republic Day celebrations by unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path. Prime Minister Modi received her on arrival. The parade, based on the themes of 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Bharat - Loktantra ki Matruka,' witnessed the participation of around 13,000 special guests, promoting public involvement.
A historic moment unfolded as President Murmu and French President Macron arrived at Kartavya Path in a traditional buggy, marking its return after 40 years. The parade showcased an all-women contingent of the Armed Forces Medical Services and featured the Indian Navy tableau highlighting 'Nari Shakti' and 'Atmanirbharta,' alongside the participation of a French military contingent. The event celebrated India's rich heritage and its commitment to progress and democracy.