India’s 77th Republic Day will see European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests. Their visit underscores deepening India-EU ties, coinciding with the upcoming EU-India Summit focused on trade, defense, and mobility agreements.
India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2026 are set to acquire significant diplomatic weight. For the first time, two top leaders from the European Union - Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa - will jointly serve as chief guests at the parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Their presence highlights the strengthening partnership between India and the EU.
Key Highlights
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The leaders arrived in New Delhi ahead of the January 26 parade, marking the beginning of a four-day visit. Ursula von der Leyen was welcomed by Union Minister Jitin Prasada, while Antonio Costa is scheduled to join her before the official events.
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The Republic Day parade will showcase India’s military prowess and cultural diversity, with the EU leaders seated alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their participation symbolizes India’s recognition of the EU as a strategic partner.
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The visit precedes the 16th EU-India Summit on January 27, where discussions are expected to cover trade negotiations, defense cooperation, and mobility agreements. A potential landmark Free Trade Agreement is anticipated to be a central agenda item.
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The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the joint presence of von der Leyen and Costa reflects the EU’s growing importance in India’s foreign policy framework.
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This diplomatic engagement also comes at a time when India is seeking to expand its global partnerships, particularly in areas of technology, sustainability, and security.
The Republic Day 2026 celebrations are not only a display of India’s national pride but also a platform for advancing international cooperation. The participation of Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa as chief guests marks a milestone in India-EU relations, setting the stage for deeper collaboration in the years ahead.
Sources : The Hindu, The Indian Express, PTI, The Quint