### EU Leaders to Attend India's 77th Republic Day Celebrations: A Diplomatic Milestone The upcoming Republic Day celebrations in India on January 26, 2026, will feature two prominent leaders from the European Union (EU) as chief guests: António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Their visit from January 25 to 27 is expected to significantly enhance India-EU relations, particularly in the context of a long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) that is anticipated to be finalized during this period. This marks a historic moment as it is only the second time India has invited leaders from a regional grouping to be chief guests, following the ASEAN leaders in 2018 [https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/eu-leaders-von-der-leyen-costa-to-be-chief-guests-at-republic-day-parade-101768492759690.html]. ### Structure of the Upcoming Events and Their Implications 1. **Chief Guests and Their Roles**: - António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen will serve as chief guests at the Republic Day parade, symbolizing the strengthening of diplomatic ties between India and the EU [https://www.livemint.com/news/india/eu-leaders-antonio-costa-and-ursula-von-der-leyen-to-visit-india-on-25-27-january-as-republic-day-chief-guests-11768476243420.html]. - Their visit coincides with the 16th India-EU Summit, where they will co-chair discussions on various strategic issues [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3770612-india-welcomes-eu-leaders-for-republic-day-and-trade-talks]. 2. **Focus on Trade and Cooperation**: - The leaders are expected to finalize the India-EU free trade agreement, which has been in negotiation for several years. This agreement is seen as crucial for enhancing trade relations amid global economic uncertainties [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3770900-landmark-eu-india-free-trade-agreement-set-for-republic-day-unveiling]. - Discussions will also cover security and defense cooperation, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and the EU [https://www.aninews.in/news/world/europe/european-council-and-european-commission-presidents-to-meet-pm-modi-discuss-trade-security-and-defence-cooperation20260115235554]. 3. **Significance of the Event**: - This event is not just a ceremonial occasion; it represents a pivotal moment in international relations, showcasing India's increasing engagement with global powers and regional blocs [https://www.india.com/news/india/india-77th-republic-day-2026-eu-leaders-chief-guests-antonio-costa-ursula-von-der-leyen-narendra-modi-droupadi-murmu-india-eu-relations-summit-mea-announcement-8269178]. - The presence of EU leaders underscores the importance of multilateralism and cooperation in addressing global challenges, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics [https://www.cnbctv18.com/india/eu-leaders-to-visit-india-for-16th-eu-india-summit-republic-day-celebrations-chief-guests-ws-l-19821785.htm]. ### Evidence Supporting the Diplomatic Engagement - **Trade Agreement Timeline**: The India-EU FTA is expected to be signed on January 27, 2026, during the summit, marking a significant step in bilateral relations [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3770900-landmark-eu-india-free-trade-agreement-set-for-republic-day-unveiling]. - **Historical Context**: This is only the second instance of India inviting leaders from a regional bloc to the Republic Day celebrations, highlighting the strategic importance of the EU in India's foreign policy [https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/eu-leaders-von-der-leyen-costa-to-be-chief-guests-at-republic-day-parade-101768492759690.html]. - **Bilateral Cooperation**: The discussions during the summit are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including trade, security, and climate change, reflecting the comprehensive nature of India-EU relations [https://www.aninews.in/news/world/europe/european-council-and-european-commission-presidents-to-meet-pm-modi-discuss-trade-security-and-defence-cooperation20260115235554]. ### Conclusion: A Step Towards Enhanced India-EU Relations In summary, the participation of EU leaders António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen as chief guests at India's 77th Republic Day celebrations is a significant diplomatic event that underscores the strengthening ties between India and the EU. The concurrent discussions on the free trade agreement and other strategic issues are poised to enhance bilateral cooperation, marking a pivotal moment in India's international relations strategy. 1. **Chief Guests**: EU leaders Costa and von der Leyen will attend the Republic Day celebrations. 2. **Trade Agreement**: Finalization of the India-EU FTA is expected during their visit. 3. **Strategic Importance**: This event highlights India's growing engagement with global powers and regional blocs. The outcomes of this visit could have lasting implications for India-EU relations and global trade dynamics [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3770612-india-welcomes-eu-leaders-for-republic-day-and-trade-talks].