French President, Emmanuel Macron, visited the Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah in south Delhi on January 26, Friday. This visit followed his participation as the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations at Delhi’s Kartavya Path.
Location and Significance
The Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah is located in Delhi’s Nizamuddin West area and serves as the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Nizamuddin Auliya and his disciple Amir Khusrau. The shrine, dating back 700 years, is a revered Sufi site.
Macron’s Statement
During his visit, President Macron expressed his sentiments, stating, “Long live the friendship between France and India,” reaffirming the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
Visuals from the Visit
In a video, Emmanuel Macron can be seen distinctively draped in a sea green scarf, while the other members of his delegation don pink-colored scarves. Macron is observed enjoying Sufi music against the backdrop of instrumental melodies.
Duration of the Visit
The French President visited the shrine at 9:45 pm and remained there for over half an hour.
Accompanying Dignitaries
Emmanuel Macron was accompanied by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other senior dignitaries during his visit.
Defense Cooperation Roadmap
During the visit, the two countries adopted a Roadmap on Defence Industrial Cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with President Macron on January 25 and 26, strengthening bilateral ties.
Banquet and Expressions of Gratitude
President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in honor of the chief guest. Macron expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome extended to his delegation during his address.
Symbolism of Friendship
President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the historic moment when the leaders of both countries were guests of honor in each other’s successive National Day parade and celebrations. She described it as “a symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership.”
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Where did French President Emmanuel Macron visit on January 26, following the Republic Day celebrations?
a. Rashtrapati Bhavan
b. Kartavya Path
c. Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah
d. India Gate
Answer: c. Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah - What color scarf did Emmanuel Macron wear during his visit to the Sufi shrine?
a. Pink
b. Sea Green
c. Blue
d. Red
Answer: b. Sea Green - How long did President Macron stay at the Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah?
a. 15 minutes
b. 30 minutes
c. 45 minutes
d. 1 hour
Answer: b. 30 minutes - What significant event took place during Prime Minister Modi’s talks with President Macron on January 25 and 26?
a. Signing of a cultural exchange agreement
b. Adoption of a Roadmap on Defence Industrial Cooperation
c. Joint declaration on climate change
d. Trade agreement
Answer: b. Adoption of a Roadmap on Defence Industrial Cooperation