In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday, welcoming European Union leaders António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The event marked the conclusion of their three-day official visit to India, which included participation in Republic Day celebrations—a first for the EU.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
President Murmu emphasized that the India-EU partnership reflects a collective aspiration to shape a rules-based international order. She noted that in an era marked by uncertainty and conflict, both India and the European Union share a critical responsibility in maintaining global stability. "Our cooperation sends a clear message in support of diplomacy, multilateralism, and peaceful coexistence," Murmu stated, underscoring the importance of their alliance.
Shared Values and Mutual Trust
Highlighting the depth of mutual engagement, Murmu pointed out that India and Europe are connected not only by contemporary interests but also by shared values such as democracy, pluralism, and an open market economy. "These principles guide us in a rapidly changing global environment," she added, emphasizing the trust placed in one another through this partnership.
Economic Collaboration and Future Investments
Ursula von der Leyen, dressed in a bright yellow kurta designed by Indian fashion house Abraham & Thakore, addressed the gathering hours after the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement between India and the EU. She remarked, "We do not just trade more. We invest in each other's future." Von der Leyen further explained that the complementary strengths of India and the EU, combined with their scale, provide significant global influence. "Now with these agreements, we can scale even greater heights," she asserted.
Global Implications and Diplomatic Significance
The presence of EU leaders as chief guests at India's Republic Day celebrations holds special significance, reflecting the deepening ties between the two regions. Murmu reiterated that trade and investment are viewed as instruments of shared prosperity and social progress, reinforcing the strategic importance of this collaboration in fostering global stability.
This high-level dialogue underscores a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, with both sides poised to leverage their partnership for greater economic and diplomatic gains on the world stage.
