EU Leaders at India’s 77th Republic Day European Council President Antonio Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will attend India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations as Chief Guests from January 25 to 27, 2026. Their visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlights the growing importance of India–EU relations and underscores the commitment of both sides to strengthening political, economic, and global cooperation. This high-level engagement marks a key milestone in the long-standing India–EU Strategic Partnership.

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State Visit and High-Level Engagements

During their three-day State Visit, President Costa and President von der Leyen are scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold both restricted and delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi. These discussions are expected to focus on reviewing the overall progress of India–EU relations and charting a strategic path for future cooperation.

The talks are likely to cover a wide range of issues, including international security, climate action, trade, technology, and global governance. Both sides are expected to explore ways to enhance collaboration on pressing global challenges while strengthening bilateral relations in economic, cultural, and political areas.

16th India–EU Summit in New Delhi

A key highlight of the visit will be the co-chairing of the 16th India–EU Summit by President Costa and President von der Leyen on January 27, 2026. The summit will focus on advancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Trade, investment, technology, climate action, and connectivity are expected to be central themes of the discussions.

Alongside the summit, an India–EU Business Forum is anticipated to take place. This forum will bring together business leaders and policymakers from both sides to discuss opportunities for economic collaboration, investment, and the development of stronger commercial linkages. The forum aims to create a platform for sustainable growth and mutually beneficial partnerships between India and the EU.

Evolution of the India–EU Strategic Partnership

India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004. Over the years, this partnership has grown in depth and breadth. The 15th India–EU Summit, held virtually on July 15, 2020, provided a roadmap for closer engagement in trade, technology, and climate cooperation.

The historic visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February 2025 further strengthened the partnership by fostering policy alignment and cooperation in multiple sectors. This renewed momentum reflects the mutual interest of India and the EU in tackling global challenges together and promoting sustainable development.

The upcoming 16th India–EU Summit is expected to reinforce this strategic partnership. It will provide an opportunity to build on existing frameworks and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, digital technology, and sustainable trade practices.

Significance of the Republic Day Invitation

The invitation to European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen as Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day carries great diplomatic significance. It demonstrates the high priority India places on its relationship with the EU and underscores the importance of international cooperation.

The presence of EU leaders at such a symbolic event highlights the shared values of democracy, rule of law, and respect for international norms. It also signals a commitment to strengthening multilateralism and contributing to a rules-based international order.

Advancing Bilateral and Global Cooperation: EU Leaders at India’s 77th Republic Day

The visit is expected to deepen India–EU relations across multiple fronts. In trade, both sides are likely to explore ways to enhance market access, investment flows, and technological collaboration. Discussions on climate action could focus on renewable energy, carbon reduction strategies, and joint research initiatives.

Connectivity and infrastructure development are other potential areas of focus. Collaborative projects could improve regional connectivity, digital infrastructure, and sustainable urban development. By aligning their priorities, India and the EU can create a stronger framework for long-term economic growth and technological advancement.

Additionally, the strategic dialogue is likely to address global security concerns, including cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. Both India and the EU are expected to emphasize the importance of cooperative action in maintaining peace and stability in regional and international contexts.

Strengthening People-to-People Ties: EU Leaders at India’s 77th Republic Day

Beyond high-level political and economic discussions, the visit is also expected to promote cultural and people-to-people connections. Exchanges in education, science, and research could help build stronger networks between institutions and individuals from India and EU member countries.

The involvement of business leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives in forums and dialogues during the visit will also contribute to a deeper understanding of shared priorities and common goals. These engagements are crucial for sustaining a long-term strategic partnership that benefits both India and the EU.

Looking Ahead: EU Leaders at India’s 77th Republic Day

The visit of European Council President Antonio Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day, combined with the 16th India–EU Summit, represents a major milestone in the India–EU Strategic Partnership. It underscores the importance of collaboration on trade, technology, climate action, connectivity, and global security.

This engagement is set to reinforce the shared commitment of India and the European Union to promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in a rapidly changing global environment. As both sides work to advance their partnership, the upcoming Republic Day celebrations will not only mark India’s constitutional legacy but also highlight its growing role as a global partner.