EU chief says ‘successful India makes the world more stable’ ahead of India–EU summit and trade push
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 celebrations in New Delhi with European Council President Antonio Costa. Their visit sets the stage for the India–EU summit on 27 January 2026, where trade and wider cooperation are expected to dominate.
- Reporting desk
- Health India Network News Desk
- First published
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in a public message following India’s Republic Day parade on 26 January 2026, said that a successful India makes the world “more stable, prosperous and secure”. She attended the ceremony in New Delhi alongside European Council President Antonio Costa, with both leaders serving as chief guests.
The remarks came ahead of the India–EU summit scheduled for Tuesday, 27 January 2026. The visit has been widely framed as a signal that New Delhi and Brussels want to accelerate cooperation across trade, technology and strategic issues, at a time when both sides are also emphasising the need for reliable partnerships in a turbulent global environment.
Summit agenda: trade deal expectations and strategic cooperation
A central theme of the visit is the trade relationship, with Indian and European officials and media coverage pointing to a strong push to conclude or announce major outcomes tied to the long-running free trade talks. Alongside commerce, the summit is expected to cover collaboration in areas such as supply chains, digital governance, climate action and geopolitics.
On the Indian side, Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly welcomed the EU leaders and said their presence underscored the growing strength of the India–EU partnership. The optics of the EU’s top leadership at Republic Day were also portrayed as a rare diplomatic gesture, placing India’s national celebration within a broader international narrative.
Why Republic Day became a global signal
While Republic Day is primarily about constitutional pride and national unity, the 2026 event was also used to spotlight external partnerships. The EU leaders’ participation linked a major domestic ceremony to a near-term summit agenda, giving both sides a platform to project alignment and momentum.
For New Delhi, the visit reinforces a diplomatic message that India’s growth story matters beyond its borders. For Brussels, it supports the argument that stronger ties with India can contribute to stability and prosperity, particularly as the EU seeks diversified economic and strategic relationships.