India has been at the forefront of efforts at the UN to push for urgent long-pending reform of the Security Council, emphasising that it rightly deserves a place at the UN high table as a permanent member. India argues that the 15-nation council founded in 1945 is not fit for purpose in the 21st Century and does not reflect contemporary geo-political realities.
Most of the leaders from the South Asian neighbouring countries invoked enduring friendship rooted in history and strengthening of bilateral relations. Presidents and prime ministers from other regions spoke about strategic ties and regional ethos.
French President Macron observed the 75th Republic Day parade with great interest — the theme of “Nari Shakti (Woman Power)” was spectacularly showcased at the parade.
According to reports, he was received by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Governor Kalraj Mishra at the Jaipur airport this afternoon. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join him in Jaipur later in the day, the Rajasthan CM tweeted on receiving him at the airport.
Prime Minister Modi and President Macron have vowed to strengthen Indo-French defence ties through partnership in design, development and manufacture of advanced defence technologies and platforms including for third countries in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval yesterday held wide-ranging talks with French President’s diplomatic advisor Emmanuel Bonne with a focus on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Paris next week.
More than a thousand rioters have been arrested in France as cities see unabated burning and looting, apparently in demand for “Justice for Nahel M”, the French-Algerian teenager killed in a police shooting.