On the 27th of January 2026, President Droupadi Murmu hosted a historic reception and banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan for the chief guests of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations. The guests of honour were H.E. António Costa, President of the European Council, and H.E. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The visit was a historic milestone since it was the first time the European Union was a part of India’s Republic Day celebrations in an official capacity as a chief guest.
The President of India emphasised that the invitation from the European Union to the Republic Day celebrations is a product of the profound trust between the two nations. The President added that the bond between the two powers is not just a product of current times but is firmly embedded in the shared values of democracy, diversity and a free market economy. These shared values have come to act as a guiding compass for the two powers in a world that is becoming increasingly complex.
A highlight of this visit was the commemoration of the India-EU Strategic Partnership, which has grown considerably over the last two decades. The President emphasised that there is a collective responsibility between these two regions to continue to support and sustain global stability, diplomacy and a rules-based international system. In a world full of uncertainty, she emphasised that this partnership was a strong statement in favour of multilateralism and peaceful coexistence.
Economic cooperation is a core dimension of this partnership and the President was very pleased with the successful conclusion of negotiations on the historic India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This agreement is set to be a harbinger of shared prosperity, making a real difference to the people on both sides.
The leaders also looked at the future in terms of innovation and security. During the discussions, there were mentions of the newly concluded Security and Defence Partnership, which will promote industrial cooperation. In addition, the President emphasised the need for cooperation in responsible innovation as well as in clean energy, climate finance, and sustainable technologies for addressing global environmental challenges.
The three leaders expressed unwavering confidence in the agreements signed, which will make India and the EU a force for balance and optimism in a rapidly changing world, and together, they will build a future that is inclusive, sustainable and humane.
