India Unveils Its Guest List For The 77th Republic Day Celebrations

New Delhi: In a major announcement made today, India has finally unveiled the names of the chief guests for the 77th Republic Day celebrations.  

The chief guests for this year’s Republic Day celebration are two prominent European Union leaders: President of the European Council António Luís Santos da Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, who is the President of the European Commission.

According to information from the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday, both prominent leaders will carry out a state visit from 25 to 27 January 2026. Political experts point towards a significant diplomatic gesture that assures stronger ties between India and Europe.

It may be mentioned that António Costa, who is an influential Portuguese politician, joined the European Council presidency in 2024 after navigating Portugal’s government amid a serious financial recovery after 2015. Interestingly, the visit coincides with the current talks on trade, security, and climate action.

On the other hand, Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected in 2024 for a second term as Commission President. She champions the EU’s Green Deal and spearheaded the digital transformation of the European Union. She advocates robust transatlantic and Indo-Pacific partnerships.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said this is to be a “new chapter” in Indo-EU friendship. He posted on X, “Honoured to host President Costa and President von der Leyen. Together, we shape a resilient future.” 

Meanwhile, India is all geared up for a spectacular 77th R-Day parade that is set to showcase India’s might in both technology and weaponry, including the latest Tejas Mk-1A jets and Akash missiles.

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