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Who are Ursula von and António Costa?: India's 77th Republic Day (Republic Day 2026) is going to be historic. This year, the parade on Kartavya Path will not only showcase military might and culture, but will also mark a new chapter in India-Europe relations. Two of the European Union's (EU) most powerful leaders, Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa, are in India as the chief guests for this year's Republic Day parade.
It is believed that the much-awaited India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which experts have dubbed the "mother of all deals," may be signed during this visit.
Who is Ursula von der Leyen? (President of the European Commission)
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Ursula von der Leyen is currently the President of the European Commission. She represents this organization of 27 countries on the global stage.
- Political Career: Ursula began her political career after the age of 40. She was the longest-serving member of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel's cabinet and also served as Germany's first female Defence Minister.
- Education and Medicine: Before entering politics, she was a trained medical doctor. She completed her studies at Hanover Medical School and also studied at Stanford University (USA).
- Childhood and Security: She was born in Brussels, Belgium. Interestingly, while studying in London, she changed her name to 'Rose Ladson' for security reasons to avoid becoming a target of extremists.
- Personal Life: She is a mother of seven children and is very fond of horse riding. She belongs to a prominent and wealthy family in Germany.
Who is António Costa? (European Council President and the India Connection)
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The second chief guest for Republic Day 2026 is António Costa, the President of the European Council. His visit to India is also emotionally significant.
- Goa Connection: António Costa is the former Prime Minister of Portugal, but his roots are in Goa, India. His father, Orlando da Costa, was a renowned writer born in Goa.
- Babush: In Goa, people affectionately call him 'Babush' (which means 'little dear child' in Konkani). He also holds an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card.
- Political Stature: Costa is considered one of Europe's most accomplished leaders. As Prime Minister of Portugal, he earned considerable praise for his economic reforms.
India-EU FTA: Why is this meeting significant?
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A major announcement regarding the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected at the India-EU Summit, which will take place immediately after the parade.
- Increased Trade: This agreement will reduce the cost of trade between India and Europe and provide a larger market for Indian exports (such as electronics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals) in Europe.
- Defense Partnership: Along with trade, both sides may also sign a security and defense agreement, which is crucial for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Employment Opportunities: The successful implementation of the FTA is expected to create millions of new jobs in India.
Also Read: Republic Day 2026 Highlights: Kartavya Path Parade ki 5 Badi Baatein
