EU’s Ursula von der Leyen says a ‘successful India’ makes the world more stable, ahead of India–EU summit
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said a successful India makes the world “more stable, prosperous and secure” after attending India’s Republic Day parade as a chief guest, as New Delhi prepared for an India–EU summit focused on trade, security and strategic cooperation.
Republic Day appearance signals deeper India–EU engagement
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking after attending India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on 26 January 2026, underlined the European Union’s view of India as a stabilising global partner. She attended alongside European Council President António Costa, in a high-visibility diplomatic gesture that preceded an India–EU summit scheduled for the next day.
In a post on X after the ceremony, von der Leyen said it was an honour to be a chief guest and argued that India’s success benefits the broader international system, describing it as a driver of stability, prosperity and security. The messaging framed the Republic Day visit as more than ceremonial, linking it to ongoing strategic and economic talks.
Modi highlights shared values and momentum
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the presence of the two EU leaders underscored the growing strength of the India–EU partnership and a commitment to shared values. He added that the visit would add momentum to expanding cooperation across sectors, signalling that New Delhi sees the relationship as broad-based rather than limited to a single negotiating track.
The Republic Day parade itself combined a display of military strength, indigenous defence capabilities and cultural heritage. The ceremonial setting provided a public platform for both sides to reinforce partnership narratives while delegations prepared for formal summit-level discussions.
Summit agenda expected to centre on trade and security
According to the report, the summit talks with Modi were expected to cover trade, security and strategic cooperation. With both leaders present for Republic Day, the visit was positioned as a coordinated push to deepen engagement and move discussions forward on multiple fronts, including economic ties and geopolitical coordination.
India’s Republic Day traditionally features a foreign chief guest, but the joint presence of the European Commission and European Council heads was highlighted as notable. The timing placed public symbolism and negotiating substance in the same window, a format often used to strengthen diplomatic signalling and domestic visibility.