Echoing the sentiment, Iran’s Embassy in India congratulated the Indian government and its people, while emphasizing the deep-rooted historical friendship and commitment to broadening cooperation in areas of mutual benefit.

At the heart of the celebrations, a spectacular parade will grace Delhi’s Kartavya Path, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu. Joining her as chief guests will be prominent EU figures: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Von der Leyen landed in India on Saturday, greeted by Commerce and Industry Minister of State Jitin Prasada. This high-profile visit is seen as a game-changer for India-EU ties, especially with FTA talks nearing completion. The Ministry of External Affairs shared on X that the partnership, grounded in trust and shared democratic values, is set for its next strategic phase.

Experts anticipate that the Republic Day events could pave the way for formalizing the India-EU FTA, potentially unlocking vast trade opportunities and strengthening global supply chains between these economic powerhouses.

The itinerary is packed: co-chairing the 16th India-EU Summit on January 27, meetings with President Murmu, and detailed discussions with PM Modi at various levels. An India-EU Business Forum might also take place, injecting new energy into bilateral trade dialogues.

Since establishing strategic ties in 2004, India and the EU have navigated challenges together. The virtual 15th Summit in 2022 paved the way, and the EU Commissioners’ February 2025 visit supercharged relations across multiple domains.

This Republic Day participation by EU chiefs, coupled with the summit, is poised to deepen collaboration in priority areas, according to Foreign Ministry spokespersons. Meanwhile, momentum builds for an India-EU FTA. A January 10 statement reiterated commitments to a balanced agreement via open talks.

The Commerce Ministry highlighted recent ministerial huddles stressing the strategic need for a prompt, equitable FTA that mirrors common economic goals and WTO principles. Piyush Goyal’s Brussels trip was a game-changer—productive exchanges with Maros Sefcovic on sticky issues, with clear instructions for teams to accelerate closure.

Brussels dialogues showcased unwavering political determination for a sweeping trade deal. As fireworks light up Rajpath, this visit symbolizes converging paths: India’s rising global stature meets Europe’s quest for reliable partners. Expect announcements on green tech, digital economy, and supply chain resilience, heralding a new chapter in Indo-European synergy.