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Source– This post is based on the article “Macron for Republic Day 2024: How India chooses its Republic Day chief guest” published in “The Indian Express” on 22nd December 2023.
Why in the News?
France’s President Emmanuel Macron will be India’s chief guest for its 2024 Republic Day celebrations.
How is the Republic Day Chief Guest chosen?
1) The process starts nearly six months in advance of the event.
2) The Ministry of External Affairs considers various factors before issuing the invitation.
3) The key factor is the relationship between India and the guest country, as the Republic Day Chief Guest invitation symbolizing the ultimate friendship gesture.
4) Decision-making is strongly influenced by India’s political, commercial, military, and economic interests, as the Ministry of External Affairs aims to enhance ties in these areas during the occasion.
5) Another factor that has historically played a role in the choice of the Chief Guest is the association with the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), initiated in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
For example, President Sukarno of Indonesia, a founding NAM member, was the inaugural Chief Guest in 1950.
6) After careful consideration, the MEA seeks approval from the PM and the President on a list of potential candidates.
7) Upon confirming the availability of potential chief guests, official communication takes place between India and the invitee’s country.
8) The planning of the visit involves the Government of India, state governments which the foreign dignitary might visit, and the government of the concerned country.
What is the Significance of being India’s Republic Day Chief Guest?
1) Being invited as the chief guest at Republic Day celebrations is the highest honour a country accords in terms of protocol.
2) The chief guest is front and centre in many ceremonial activities.
3) They are given the ceremonial guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan followed by a reception hosted by the President of India.
4) The symbolism serves as a powerful tool to forge and renew ties between India and the nation of its invitee, having greater political and diplomatic significance as well.
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