South Africa tour of India 2019
Honour of a Lifetime: EU Chief Lauds India’s 77th Republic Day Celebrations
New Delhi: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, describing her participation as “the honour of a lifetime.” Sharing a video from the grand event on X, she expressed admiration for India’s progress and its growing influence on the global stage.
“It is the honour of a lifetime to be Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations,” von der Leyen wrote, adding that “a successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure.” Her remarks underscored the deepening strategic partnership between India and the European Union, reflecting shared interests in global stability, economic growth, and security.
Von der Leyen and European Council President António Luís Santos da Costa received a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour upon their arrival in New Delhi. Their visit marked the beginning of a high-profile engagement, with both leaders attending the Republic Day parade as Chief Guests—an unprecedented gesture highlighting the strength of India–EU ties.
India marked its 77th Republic Day with a grand ceremony at Kartavya Path, led by President Droupadi Murmu. The celebrations featured the unfurling of the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a traditional 21-gun salute. Notably, the salute was carried out using indigenously developed 105 mm Light Field Guns by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment.
The event showcased India’s military capability, cultural diversity, and diplomatic outreach, reinforcing its expanding role as a key global partner.
It is the honor of a lifetime to be Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 26, 2026
A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure.
And we all benefit ↓ https://t.co/boeqFGv15Q
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