EU Leaders to Grace Republic Day 2026 as Chief Guests in New Delhi
The Republic Day celebrations in 2026 will witness a significant diplomatic presence with two top European Union leaders serving as chief guests. António Luís Santos da Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, have been invited to attend the official parade at Kartavya Path on Monday, January 26, 2026.
High-Profile Visit and Summit Engagement
According to MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who announced the news on social media platform X, both dignitaries are scheduled to arrive in New Delhi shortly. Their official visit to India is planned from January 25 to 27, 2026, encompassing not just the Republic Day festivities but also representing the European Union at the 16th EU-India Summit on January 27.
The European Council released a press statement confirming that both presidents will meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their stay. The summit aims to build upon the existing EU-India strategic partnership and enhance collaboration across multiple critical policy domains. Key discussion topics are expected to include trade relations, security and defense cooperation, initiatives for a clean energy transition, and strengthening people-to-people connections between the two regions.
EU Contingent at the Parade and Preceding Diplomatic Moves
Major General Dhillon provided details about the European Union's participation in the Republic Day parade itself. A small EU contingent will be featured, led by an officer holding the rank of colonel, mounted on a vehicle. Following this lead, four flag-bearers will ride on two separate vehicles, showcasing the EU's symbolic presence during the national celebration.
This high-level visit follows the arrival of Kaja Kallas, the EU Vice-President and High Representative, who landed in New Delhi on Saturday for her first official visit to India. Welcoming her, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted on X that her visit builds on the momentum of regular high-level engagements and presents an opportune moment to further fortify the India-EU Strategic Partnership.
Profiles of the Distinguished Chief Guests
António Costa has served as the President of the European Council since December 1, 2024. Born on July 17, 1961, in Portugal, Costa has a notable connection to India through his great-grandfather, who hailed from the state of Goa, adding a personal dimension to his visit.
Ursula von der Leyen has held the position of President of the European Commission since 2019. A medical doctor by profession, she was born on October 8, 1958, in Brussels to a family with Turkish-German heritage. Her extensive political career in Germany included serving as the Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, and later as the Defence Minister from 2013 to 2019.
The Republic Day parade will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to the nation's bravehearts at the National War Memorial, setting a solemn and respectful tone for the day's events that will be witnessed by these esteemed international guests.
