'See you in February': Macron shares throwback picture with 'dear friend' PM Modi on India's Republic Day

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday extended his wishes to his “dear” Indian friends on the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day and shared a throwback selfie with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2024, when he had visited India as the chief guest for the 75th Republic Day.

The photograph, posted on Macron’s official X account, showed him standing alongside PM Modi in front of Jaipur’s iconic Hawa Mahal.

“What a wonderful memory of the Republic Day we shared together in 2024! My dear friend Narendra Modi, dear Indian friends, my very best wishes on this great day of celebration,” Macron wrote.

“See you in February to continue building together,” the French President added, referring to his scheduled visit to India next month to attend the AI Summit.

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India–France ties reaffirmed

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Modi met Emmanuel Bonne, Diplomatic Advisor to President Macron.

“Reaffirmed the strong and trusted India–France Strategic Partnership, marked by close cooperation across multiple domains,” PM Modi said in a post on X after the meeting.

He said it was encouraging to see India–France collaboration expanding into areas such as innovation, technology, and education, especially as the two countries mark the ‘Year of Innovation’.

“Also exchanged perspectives on key regional and global issues. Look forward to welcoming President Macron to India soon,” the Prime Minister added.

Republic Day 2026 celebrations

India marked its 77th Republic Day on Monday with a grand parade at Delhi’s Kartavya Path, showcasing the country’s military strength and cultural diversity. The celebrations were presided over by President Droupadi Murmu.

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attended the event as chief guests.

Prime Minister Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, several Union ministers, senior military leaders, foreign diplomats, and top officials were among those present.

Around 100 artists opened the parade with performances based on the theme ‘Vividata Mein Ekta’, highlighting India’s unity and rich cultural heritage.