India is pulling out the ultimate diplomatic red carpet for January 2026. As of today, Thursday, January 15, 2026, it’s official: for the first time ever, the top two leaders of the European Union—António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen—will be the joint Chief Guests for our 77th Republic Day.1
The thing is, this isn’t just about a parade. Or nothing. Let’s be real, having both the European Council and Commission presidents on the dais is a massive signal that New Delhi finally sees the EU as one single, heavyweight strategic partner. Those too. And here’s the kicker—it’s been six years since the last physical summit, and they aren’t coming empty-handed.
Also Read | Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced to 17 Years in Jail
The “India-EU Power Play” Log: Field Notes
It’s an ongoing situation where the “Brussels-Delhi” connection is shifting from cold bureaucracy to a warm strategic embrace.2
-
The “Mega” Trade Deal: Rumors in the hallways of the MEA suggest the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) might finally be signed on January 27.3 The thing is, they’ve supposedly carved out agriculture just to get the rest of the deal over the finish line.4
-
The 16th Summit: After the parade, they’re staying for the 16th India-EU Summit.5 The thing is, they’ll be talking about more than just trade—think defence-industrial collaboration and supply-chain resilience.
-
Why Both? In the past, India would invite a French or German leader. The thing is, by inviting the EU’s “top two,” Modi is acknowledging that the bloc’s collective power is what matters now.6 And here’s the kicker—it follows that “historic” visit of the entire EU College of Commissioners to India back in February 2025.7
-
Business Sidelines: There’s a massive India-EU Business Forum happening too.8 The thing is, senior policymakers and CEOs are looking to diversify away from China, and India is the obvious “Plan B.”9
Also Read | Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced to 17 Years in Jail
Republic Day 2026: The “Grand Reset” Timeline
| Date | Key Event | Expected Outcome |
| Jan 25, 2026 | Leaders Arrive | State Visit begins; meet-and-greet with President Murmu. |
| Jan 26, 2026 | Republic Day Parade | EU leaders as Chief Guests; display of “Strategic Trust.” |
| Jan 27, 2026 | 16th India-EU Summit | Potential FTA Signing; New Strategic Agenda 2030. |
| Jan 27, 202610 | Business Forum11 | Focus on AI, Semiconductors, and Green Tech.12 |
And Here’s the Kicker…
While the parade showcases tanks and missiles, the real action is in the Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The thing is, the EU is desperate to secure India’s help with Critical Minerals and Green Hydrogen to meet their Net Zero targets.
It’s an ongoing situation where the world order is looking a bit “wobbly” with shifts in U.S. trade policies.13 The thing is, by locking in the EU now, India is hedging its bets perfectly. By next month, we might see duty-free Indian textiles in Paris and German machinery in Pune without the current mountain of red tape.
Also Read | Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced to 17 Years in Jail
End…
