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New Delhi: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa have been named as the chief guests for India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, marking a rare moment when the European Union’s two most senior political figures will jointly attend the event.
Their presence underscores the growing political, economic and strategic importance that both New Delhi and Brussels now attach to their relationship.
Ursula von der Leyen, a former German defence minister, has led the European Commission since 2019 and was reappointed for a second term in 2024. As head of the EU’s executive arm, she plays a central role in shaping the bloc’s policies on trade, climate action, digital regulation and external relations. During her tenure, the EU has sought to strengthen its global partnerships while navigating challenges such as supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and the transition to greener economies. India has emerged as a key partner in this strategy, particularly in areas such as clean energy, technology cooperation and resilient manufacturing.
António Costa, who assumed office as President of the European Council in December 2024, brings with him long experience in European and domestic politics. A former prime minister of Portugal, Costa is known for his emphasis on consensus building among EU member states. As European Council President, he represents the collective voice of EU leaders and plays a crucial role in setting the bloc’s political direction, including its engagement with major international partners like India.
Their visit to New Delhi is expected to coincide with the India EU Summit, giving fresh momentum to negotiations on a long pending Free Trade Agreement. Talks on the pact were resumed in December in New Delhi, with both sides aiming to conclude the agreement after more than a decade of negotiations. Discussions have focused on trade in goods and services, investment rules, government procurement and regulatory standards, while several sensitive issues remain unresolved.
Key points of contention include market access for automobiles and steel, rules of origin, services sector barriers and the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which is set to take effect from January 1 and could affect Indian exports of carbon intensive products. India has raised concerns that the measure could act as a trade barrier, while the EU argues it is essential for meeting climate goals.
Inviting the EU’s top leadership as Republic Day chief guests carries strong symbolic significance. It reflects India’s intent to elevate its partnership with the European Union at a time of shifting global alliances and economic uncertainty. For Brussels, the visit signals a clear recognition of India’s growing role as a strategic and economic partner in the Indo Pacific and beyond.
