Not Trump or Putin: PM Modi to Meet France, Germany and UK Leaders at Republic Day

India is set to host EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa as Republic Day 2026 chief guests, marking a historic diplomatic move that strengthens India-EU ties, boosts trade, defense, and global cooperation, and signals India’s multi-alignment strategy.

New India: India is doing something different for the Republic Day parade on January 26 next year. This time, neither the President of the United States nor the President of Russia will be invited.

Nor have the leaders of countries like France, England, or Germany been named as the chief guest. The Chinese president's name is also not on the list. Instead, for the first time, India is inviting the leadership of the European Union (EU).

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The European leaders invited as chief guests are

• Ursula von der Leyen—President of the European Commission
• António Costa—President of the European Council

This move is being seen as a significant boost in India-EU relations. This invitation holds not only diplomatic but also strategic importance.

The Selection and Significance of the Chief Guest

India carefully selects the chief guest for Republic Day. It's not just a matter of honor; strategic, economic, and diplomatic aspects are also considered. This time, inviting EU leaders signals India's international policy and its commitment to strengthening ties with Europe.

This decision by New Delhi also reflects India's pursuit of a multi-alignment policy. That is, India wants to maintain balanced and equal relations with all major power centers: the US, Russia, and Europe.

Recent Advancements in India-EU Relations

In the past few months, relations between India and the EU have strengthened considerably. In February 2025, the EU College of Commissioners visited India. Following this, negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU are underway.

The completion of this agreement will give India better access to the EU market, helping to boost exports. Furthermore, both sides have planned to deepen cooperation in technology, defense and security, digital governance, and public relations.

An India-EU Leaders' Summit will also be held in Delhi when the EU leaders visit India in January 2026.

Diplomatic and Global Significance

Making the EU leadership the chief guest for Republic Day is a diplomatic success for India. This step signals India's strengthening global role and commitment to international cooperation.

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Furthermore, it will create new opportunities in trade, investment, and defense technology collaboration. The EU flag will be flown on Republic Day, setting a new precedent for trust and cooperation between both sides.

This historic invitation is being seen as the beginning of a new era in the India-EU partnership.