Europe and India Unite to Shape a New Global Order at Republic Day Celebrations
In a historic moment for international diplomacy, European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen served as chief guests at India's 77th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on Monday. This marked the first time European Union leaders have been jointly honored at this prestigious national event, signaling a significant deepening of ties between the world's largest democracies.
Strengthening Democratic Alliances
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the profound significance of this partnership during the celebrations. "A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure," she declared, highlighting the mutual benefits of strengthened cooperation. "Europe and India are the world's largest democracies, committed to working together to shape a new global order. This is why we are here to take our partnership to new heights."
President Droupadi Murmu hosted the distinguished European leaders alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the magnificent parade along Kartavya Path. The participation of an EU military contingent in the parade served as a powerful symbol of growing security cooperation between the two powers.
Comprehensive Strategic Agenda Announced
As the European leaders prepared to co-chair the EU-India Summit with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, several landmark agreements were confirmed:
- A comprehensive strategic agenda for 2026-2030
- Conclusion of a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
- A Security and Defence Partnership agreement
- A mobility framework for students and skilled professionals
European Council President Antonio Costa, a former Portuguese Prime Minister of Indian-origin, expressed his gratitude for the invitation to participate in what he described as "a spectacular celebration of India's rich history and vibrant cultural diversity and an embodiment of its aspirations for the future."
Historic Trade Agreement Progress
EU's Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic confirmed that the India-EU free trade agreement would be concluded on Tuesday, marking a significant breakthrough after years of negotiations. "There could be no more fitting moment to reaffirm our partnership – and to strengthen it further through the conclusion of an ambitious EU-India FTA," he stated.
The FTA negotiations, first launched in 2007 and suspended in 2013, were relaunched in June 2022. After conclusion, the agreement will undergo legal review and internal consultations before proceeding to the European Parliament for consent and European Council authorization. The entire process typically takes 6-8 months, with both sides aiming to make the FTA operational by the end of 2026.
Enhanced Security and Mobility Cooperation
Von der Leyen confirmed that the Security and Defence Partnership would be signed on Tuesday, strengthening cooperation in critical areas including:
- Maritime security
- Cybersecurity
- Counter-terrorism initiatives
Additionally, the two sides will sign a memorandum of understanding facilitating the mobility of Indians to Europe, creating a new cooperation framework covering:
- Students and researchers
- Seasonal workers
- Highly skilled professionals
This builds upon existing migration partnerships with European nations including France, Germany, and Italy.
Broader Strategic Initiatives
The partnership extends beyond immediate agreements to include several forward-looking initiatives:
- Exploratory talks on India's association with Horizon Europe for research and innovation collaboration
- The first EU-India Business Forum to enhance commercial engagement
- Momentum for preparatory work on the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor
The leaders will also address pressing global issues including Russia's war against Ukraine, peace in the Indo-Pacific region, and the situation in the Middle East. While differences exist on some matters, both sides share core interests in maintaining a stable international order.
Diplomatic Engagements Continue
Following the Republic Day celebrations, the European leaders participated in an 'At-Home' reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Their schedule for Tuesday includes:
- Wreath-laying at Rajghat
- Restricted talks with Prime Minister Modi
- Delegation-level discussions
- Participation in the India-EU Business Forum
- A banquet hosted by President Murmu
This unprecedented diplomatic engagement between Europe and India represents a strategic realignment with far-reaching implications for global governance, economic cooperation, and security architecture in an increasingly multipolar world.
