Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, the senior leaders of the 27-nation European Union, attended India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26 at the iconic Kartavya Path. Their presence marks a significant moment, as they are the first EU leaders to serve as chief guests at this prestigious event, which has welcomed a select group of global leaders over the decades.
European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen joined Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, members of the Union Cabinet, foreign diplomats, and various dignitaries in witnessing the grand military parade and cultural performances. Accompanied by a high-powered delegation, Costa and von der Leyen are scheduled to engage in summit talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday.
The Republic Day parade also featured a small EU military contingent, highlighting the strengthening ties between India and the European Union. India showcased its military prowess during the event, displaying elite marching units, missiles, and indigenous weaponry.
Every year, India invites world leaders to its Republic Day celebrations. The previous year’s chief guest was Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, while French President Emmanuel Macron is set to be honored in 2024. In 2023, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi attended the celebrations, and the COVID-19 pandemic prevented any chief guest invitations in 2021 and 2022.
Historical attendance records show a variety of international leaders have participated in the Republic Day events. Notable past chief guests include Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in 2020, and in 2019, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa graced the proceedings. Remarkably, all ten ASEAN leaders attended in 2018. The 2017 celebration featured Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the 2016 event welcomed then French President François Hollande.
Earlier chief guests also include influential figures such as former US President Barack Obama in 2015 and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Noteworthy attendees from history range from Nicolas Sarkozy and Vladimir Putin to Nelson Mandela and other significant global leaders.
The Republic Day celebrations continue to be a pivotal event on India’s national calendar, uniting domestic and international dignitaries in a celebration of India’s sovereignty and cultural heritage.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/national/top-eu-leaders-grace-indias-republic-day-celebrations-for-first-time-1605572
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Publish Date: 2026-01-26 14:04:00
