European Council President Antonio Costa Proudly Displays OCI Card, Highlights Deep Goan Roots
In a heartfelt moment at the EU-India summit on Tuesday, European Council President Antonio Costa proudly flaunted his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, emphasizing his profound ancestral connection to Goa. The gesture drew applause from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and resonated deeply with attendees, underscoring the personal dimension of international diplomacy.
A Personal Declaration of Identity and Heritage
"I am the president of the European Council, but I am also an overseas Indian citizen," declared Costa, adding significant emotional weight to the proceedings. "For me, it has a special meaning. I am very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father’s family came from, and the connection between Europe and India is something personal for me." This statement highlighted how his dual identity bridges continents, making the summit's discussions on trade and security more relatable and grounded.
Historic Trade Deal Marks a New Chapter in EU-India Relations
Costa described the newly forged trade agreement as "a historic moment" and "a new chapter" in the multifaceted relationship between the European Union and India. He elaborated that this pact extends beyond mere economic transactions, encompassing critical areas such as:
- Enhanced trade cooperation to boost bilateral economic growth.
- Strengthened security partnerships to address global challenges.
- Deepened people-to-people ties to foster cultural and social exchanges.
"Our summit sends a clear message to the world—at a time when the global order is being fundamentally reshaped, the European Union and India stand together as strategic and reliable partners," Costa asserted, reinforcing the strategic importance of this alliance.
Tracing the Costa Family's Goan Legacy and Cultural Ties
Costa's connection to Goa is deeply rooted in history and family. His father, Orlando da Costa, was born in Goa—a former Portuguese colony until 1961—and was a celebrated writer whose works vividly reflected Goan influences. The Costa family maintains an ancestral home on Abade Faria Road in Margao, where extended relatives continue to reside, preserving their heritage.
During his visit to Goa in 2017, Costa, who served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 2015 to 2024, spent quality time with family members in his father’s hometown. This visit strengthened his bond with the region, and among the Goan community and Indian diaspora, he is often affectionately called "Babush", a Konkani term of endearment that signifies his cherished status.
Reflections on Mahatma Gandhi's Enduring Wisdom
Adding a philosophical layer to his address, Costa paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, reflecting on the leader's timeless wisdom. He quoted Gandhi's profound words: "Peace will not come out of a clash of arms but out of justice lived and done by unarmed nations in the face of odds." This homage not only honored India's iconic figure but also aligned the summit's goals with broader ideals of peace and justice, emphasizing a shared commitment to ethical global governance.
In summary, Antonio Costa's display of his OCI card at the EU-India summit was more than a symbolic act; it was a powerful affirmation of his Goan heritage and a catalyst for strengthening EU-India relations. His personal story, combined with the historic trade deal and reflections on Gandhi, paints a vivid picture of how individual identities can enrich international partnerships, paving the way for a collaborative future marked by mutual respect and strategic cooperation.
