Paris: France celebrated its national holiday, Bastille Day, on Monday with a military parade on the Champs-Elysees, showcasing a strong presence from the French Armed Forces alongside representatives from several allied nations.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the military parade commenced at the Arc de Triomphe, the iconic starting point on the Champs-Elysees, and concluded at the main stage at the Place de la Concorde. French President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, and other French officials were in attendance, joined by distinguished guests such as His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
This year's event featured participation from over 7,000 personnel, with 5,600 marching on foot. In addition, 100 aircraft, 250 motorized vehicles, and 200 horses from the Republican Guard contributed to the spectacle. Indonesia marked its presence with a military delegation of more than 400 personnel, underscoring the strengthening defense ties between France and Indonesia.
The French Presidential Palace, known as the Elysee, released a statement noting that the parade coincided with the centenary of the founding of the Bleuettes de France and the centenary of the flame of the unknown soldier committee. In a symbolic gesture honoring France's military legacy, President Macron presented a new sword during the event.
A segment of the parade was also dedicated to honoring the commitment of French youth, aiming to bolster national values and foster civic spirit among the younger generations.