‎New Delhi, Jan 26 (UNI) India’s strategic partnership with the European union is set to gain fresh momentum as European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visit to New Delhi for the Republic Day celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday.
‎In a post on X, PM Modi said India was “privileged to host” the two top EU leaders, calling their presence a reflection of the growing strength of India–EU relations. “Their presence underscores the growing strength of the India-European union partnership and our commitment to shared values,” the Prime Minister said. He added that the visit “will add momentum to the deepening engagement and cooperation between India and Europe across diverse sectors.”
‎The visit comes at a time when New Delhi and Brussels are working to broadening cooperation across trade, technology, climate action, digital connectivity, and security. India and the EU have in recent years revived negotiations on a long-pending free trade agreement and expanded collaboration under the Trade and Technology Council, aimed at aligning approaches on emerging technologies and resilient supply chains.
‎Republic Day, celebrated annually on January 26, marks the adoption of India’s Constitution in 1950 and is the country’s most significant ceremonial event, often featuring a chief guest to highlight diplomatic priorities. The attendance of both the European Council and European Commission presidents is being seen as a strong political signal of the EU’s intent to elevate its engagement with India amid shifting global geopolitics.
‎Officials familiar with the preparations said the visit is expected to include high-level meetings focused on accelerating economic ties, boosting investment, and coordinating positions on global challenges such as climate change and regional security.
‎India and the European union have described each other as “natural partners,” linked by democratic values and a shared interest in a rules-based international order. PM Modi’s remarks suggested that the Republic Day visit would not only carry symbolic weight but also translate into concrete outcomes in the months ahead. UNI SKA SAS KK