Ahead of key Delhi summit, EU leaders to begin India visit; to be chief guests at Republic Day function

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, arrived in India for a four-day visit to solidify ties with the country ahead of the 16th EU-India Summit. The summit, taking place on January 27, 2026, will see discussions on a free trade agreement, a strategic defense partnership pact, and mobility frameworks for Indian professionals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, will host the talks in New Delhi. The visit coincides with increasing global concerns over disruptions caused by the Trump administration's policies.