India has taken a historic decision for Republic Day 2026. This time the top leaders of the European Union (EU), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa will be invited as chief guests. This will be the first time that two top leaders of an international organization will together attend this prestigious national function of India. Both the leaders will reach New Delhi in January 2026, which is considered a symbol of giving a new direction and strengthening to the deepening strategic, economic and diplomatic relations between India and the European Union.

According to the Indian Express report, sources have said that the process of inviting European Union (EU) leaders as the chief guests of Republic Day 2026 is in the final stages. New Delhi and Brussels will soon announce this formal invitation and acceptance. Inviting a foreign leader as the chief guest on Republic Day is considered an important and symbolic step in India’s foreign policy. This selection is not just a formality, but it reflects India’s strategic, economic and geopolitical priorities.

Who was the chief guest in 2025?

India celebrates Republic Day every year on 26 January, which commemorates the implementation of the Constitution in 1950. This event is a symbol of India’s democratic heritage and international friendship. Till now, heads of state or government of many countries have been the chief guests of this function. In 2025, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest, while hosting two top EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa in 2026 will add a new chapter to India’s diplomatic history.

New strength in India-European Union relations

There has been significant progress in relations between India and the 27-member European Union in the last few months. After the visit of top representatives of the European Commission to India in February, dialogue and cooperation between the two sides has gained momentum. On October 20, the European Union approved a new strategic agenda, which aims to take India-EU relations to a new level. This agenda includes finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), promoting cooperation in technical, defence, security and public relations sectors.

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India eu fta: In addition to 25 percent tariff on India from the US, an additional tariff of 25 percent has been imposed as a panalty due to the purchase of crude oil from Russia. Due to this, the total rates have been 50 percent. The high tariff imposed on India has tightened the competition for Indian exporters in the American market. That is, it is becoming difficult for India to remain in front of Vietnam or Bangladesh and Pakistan exporters.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement

Meanwhile, efforts are being intensified between India and European Union for ambitious free trade agreement and two important meetings have been scheduled next month to remove all pending differences. According to officials, a delegation of European officials is coming to New Delhi this week. Where they can discuss issues with differences such as market access, customs duty on agricultural products and especially alcohol and dairy.

This step is being taken at a time when India is under pressure from American high tariff. And the White House is constantly putting pressure on the European Union to impose additional customs on India due to buying oil from Russia.

New Delhi’s eye on the new market

Actually, both sides are trying to do the conversation by the end of this year. Because due to the influence of Trump Tariff, New Delhi is looking for a new market. India’s European Union is a large trading partner and bilateral trade between the two countries has touched a figure of about 135 billion in 2023-24.

It is believed that the European Union will present its new vision on 17 September regarding India. And it can be formally announced at the conference to be held early next month.

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