India-EU Relations Take Centre Stage as EU Leaders Reach Delhi for Republic Day

New Delhi: Preparations to strengthen the relations between India and the European Union are clearly visible. In this series, India has invited European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a state visit from 25 to 27 January.

Why is India considering this tour so important?

According to the government statement, this visit is not just a formality, but reflects India's thinking in which the European Union is being considered as a strong partner in the global strategy. In the changing international situation, India now wants to deepen its relations with Europe.

How did the closeness between the two sides increase?

In the last few years, cooperation between India and EU has not been limited to just trade. There have been continuous negotiations and agreements in areas such as technology, infrastructure, connectivity and investment. Platforms like Trade and Technology Council, Global Gateway and IMEC have given concrete shape to this partnership.

Why will European leaders be special guests on Republic Day?

Antonio Costa will attend the Republic Day celebrations on January 26 as the chief guest. Ursula von der Leyen will also be present in India along with him. In diplomatic circles, this is being considered a strong sign of growing trust between the two sides.

What changed from Trade and Technology Council?

The TTC was launched in 2023 and its second major meeting was held in New Delhi in February 2025. In this, both sides recognized that global politics and economy are changing rapidly, and in such a situation India-EU cooperation has become more important. In the talks, emphasis was laid on increasing trade, securing the supply chain and technical cooperation.

How similar is thinking regarding climate and energy?

Both India and the European Union are taking clean energy and climate goals seriously. India has already taken major steps in the field of non-fossil energy and has achieved many targets ahead of schedule. Experts believe that coordination between the two can increase in future on issues like carbon tax and green finance.

Why is IMEC being called the ‘New Silk Route’?

IMEC i.e. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is being seen as a new economic route between Asia and Europe. During the G20 meeting in 2023, many countries had decided to come together for this. Union Minister Piyush Goyal has called it a model of equal partnership and shared progress.