Leaders from Around the World Extend Wishes to India on Republic Day, Pledge Deeper Cooperation

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar received warm wishes from world leaders on India's 77th Republic Day. Among them were Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, and Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives. Jaishankar expressed gratitude for their kind words, emphasizing the importance of deeper cooperation. Meanwhile, European leaders attended the Republic Day celebrations and the 16th EU-India Summit. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called India a key global partner, stating that a successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure. EU leaders signaled strong momentum in EU-India relations, with a trade deal 'very close' to being finalized. The agreement aims to reduce steep tariffs for European companies in India, opening a market of 1.4 billion people for European exports and services. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to India, highlighting the growing strength of the India-European Union partnership. Modi emphasized the deepening engagement and cooperation between India and Europe across diverse sectors. The visit is expected to add momentum to the partnership, with both sides committing to shared values. As the 16th EU-India Summit takes place, both sides are working towards a comprehensive trade agreement. The deal would create a free trade area covering 2 billion people and lift Indian customs duties on imports from Europe. While not all sectors will be included, the agreement is expected to have a significant impact on trade between the EU and India, with 48.8 billion Euros of goods exported in 2024.