Question

On Republic Day 2023, which country’s contingent marched alongside the Indian troops?

• A. Germany
• B. Egypt
• C. Japan
• D. France

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Egypt

Republic Day Parade 2023

Egypt's Historic Participation

• For the 74th Republic Day of India in 2023, a contingent from Egypt participated in the parade for the first time.

• This marked a significant moment as it was the first time an Arab nation's troops marched on Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) on India's Republic Day.

• The Egyptian contingent consisted of 121 soldiers and was led by Colonel Mahmoud Mohamed Abdel Fattah El-Kashae.

• The parade featured 12 tableaux from various states and union territories, and 9 from central ministries, showcasing India's diverse culture and progress.

• The Republic Day parade is held annually on January 26th to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India.

• In 2013, Bhutan's army chief was the chief guest, and in 2016, French President Francois Hollande was the chief guest.

Key Diplomatic Significance

• The presence of the Egyptian contingent underscored the strengthening strategic partnership between India and Egypt.

• This participation followed closely after the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in December 2022.

• Egypt was also the guest country of honour at the Raisina Dialogue in 2023, India's premier geopolitical conference.