French President Emmanuel Macron hosted a banquet dinner for Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Louvre Museum in Paris. The banquet dinner took place during PM Modi’s official visit to France. Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron received PM Modi at the museum, where more than 200 guests joined the two leaders to commemorate France’s national holiday. The guests were treated to a special viewing of iconic works in the world’s biggest museum. The Louvre Museum was closed off for the banquet, a gesture that was last made in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth.

The banquet dinner had several special gestures for PM Modi. Even the thread for the menu had the Indian tricolor, a deviation from their protocol of using French colors. The menu itself was specially curated with a vegetarian spread.

During his visit, PM Modi also attended the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honour. The parade, which took place at Champs-Elysees, marked the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. Contingents from the Indian armed forces participated in the parade, which was held under bright and sunny skies.

In a joint press conference with PM Modi, President Macron revealed their plans for future collaboration in education. Macron expressed his desire to send 30,000 French students to India by 2030. He also expressed the intention to create a conducive visa policy for young Indians wanting to pursue higher education in France.

PM Modi also took the opportunity to meet with influential individuals during his visit. He met with prominent aerospace engineer and pilot Thomas Pesquet, Chanel CEO Leena Nair, and Charlotte Chopin, a yoga practitioner who will soon turn 100.

For more details, read the full article on Times of India