European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday praised India’s growing global influence, stating that a successful India contributes to global stability, prosperity, and security. She was joined by European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests at India’s 77th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path, which was also saluted by President Droupadi Murmu. Their participation underscored the strengthening of India-European Union ties at a time when both sides are finalizing a landmark free trade agreement (FTA).
Von der Leyen shared on X that attending the Republic Day celebration was “the honor of a lifetime” and emphasized the positive global impact of India’s success. EU Vice-President Kaja Kallas also highlighted the strong momentum for deeper cooperation with India, noting that personnel from EU naval operations Atalanta and Aspides joined the parade for the first time. The two sides are set to sign the EU–India Security and Defence Partnership at the India-EU summit on January 27, focusing on maritime security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the European leaders, tweeting that their presence underscores the growing India-EU partnership and commitment to shared values. The EU, India’s largest trading partner, recorded bilateral goods trade of USD 135 billion in FY 2023–24. Officials indicate that the proposed FTA could substantially boost commerce, reduce tariffs, and enable a qualitative shift in India-EU relations amid global trade disruptions caused by US tariffs.
Negotiations for the FTA began in 2007, were paused in 2013 due to differences over ambition, and resumed in 2022. According to sources, India plans to sharply reduce import duties on certain EU cars, lowering tariffs from a peak of 110% to 40% immediately for vehicles above USD 17,739, with further reductions to 10% over time. This strategic trade and defense alignment highlights India’s role as a stable and reliable partner in global economic and security matters, signaling a new era in India-EU cooperation.
