India will host European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as Chief Guests at the 77th Republic Day celebrations from January 25 to 27. The visit will also include the 16th India-EU Summit, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and the European Union.
Visit and Republic Day Participation
The two EU leaders will undertake a State Visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their presence as Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations is diplomatic gesture. It marks the importance India attaches to its ties with the European Union.
India-EU Summit in New Delhi
On January 27, the leaders will co-chair the 16th India-EU Summit. They are expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold restricted as well as delegation-level talks with the Prime Minister. The summit will focus on strengthening cooperation in areas of shared interest.
Strategic Partnership Since 2004
India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004. Their ties have expanded across trade, technology, security, climate, and connectivity. The 15th India-EU Summit was held virtually in July 2020. Recent high-level exchanges, including the visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February 2025, have further deepened engagement.
Business and Future Cooperation
An India-EU Business Forum is also expected on the sidelines of the summit. The visit is likely to advance cooperation in priority sectors and reinforce the India-EU Strategic Partnership. It may also support broader economic and political dialogue between the two sides.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026