Top News

New Delhi, 27 January. Relations between India and the European Union (EU) marked a historic chapter as President Draupadi Murmu warmly welcomed European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This meeting, which took place on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, is being considered a sign of the new direction of India-EU partnership. President Murmu hosted a grand banquet in honor of both the dignitaries at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where emphasis was laid on shared values, democratic traditions and future strategic partnership.

Partnership based on democracy and shared values

Photos of the meeting of President Murmu, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were shared on the official social media platform of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President welcomed both the leaders at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in their honour, the post said.

FTA will bring change in the lives of common people

President Murmu said, ‘India and Europe today are deeply connected not only by mutual interests, but also by shared values ​​such as democracy, pluralism and an open market economy.’ The President expressed confidence that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will bring significant positive changes in the lives of the people on both sides. He said that this agreement will give new impetus to prosperity and development along with increasing economic opportunities.

Historic presence on Republic Day

The meeting took place on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, where Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen attended as chief guests. This was the first time that two top leaders of the European Union jointly became the chief guests at India’s Republic Day celebrations. Both the leaders accompanied President Murmu to the duty road in a traditional carriage and enjoyed the Republic Day parade and cultural programmes.

Appreciation of India’s hospitality

During the ‘At Home’ reception and banquet held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, both European leaders appreciated India’s warm hospitality. European Council President Antonio Costa, while sharing a photo of his meeting with President Murmu on his social media platform ‘X’, wrote that while concluding his wonderful visit to New Delhi, he thanked President Draupadi Murmu for India’s warmth and hospitality.

Global message on EU-India partnership

Antonio Costa said that the EU-India Summit has sent a clear message to the world that a global partnership based on values, rules and mutual interests is essential for shared prosperity and security.