"EU Leaders Embrace Unity and Collaboration at Banquet, Pledging Investment in Shared Future"

President Droupadi Murmu Stresses India-EU Partnership for Global Stability

President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the shared responsibility of India and the European Union in maintaining global stability during a banquet held for visiting EU leaders, António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen. The President highlighted that the partnership between India and Europe aims to shape a rules-based international order amidst uncertainty and conflict.

Following the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement, von der Leyen expressed that the relationship between Europe and India goes beyond trade, focusing on investing in each other's future. The European leader praised the complementary strengths of both sides and their ability to influence globally, aiming to reach greater heights with the recent agreements.

President Murmu welcomed the EU leaders as chief guests at India's Republic Day celebrations, marking the first participation of the European Union. She highlighted the deep mutual engagement and trust between India and Europe, rooted in shared values of democracy, pluralism, and an open market economy.

President Murmu stressed the importance of India and the EU working together to maintain global stability amidst uncertainties and conflicts. She underlined the significance of diplomacy, multilateralism, and peaceful coexistence, viewing trade and investment as tools for shared prosperity and social progress.

A controversy arose as a BJP leader objected to the inclusion of dholak artiste Mir Haji Kasam's name in Gujarat's electoral roll. Despite the objection, Kasam's name featured in the list of Padma Shri awardees aounced on Republic Day. The Congress party has demanded legal action against the BJP leader, while Kasam expressed his disappointment over the incident.

Reporting on travel, tourism, culture, and social issues, Divya A brings her journalistic expertise to The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience, she has worked with esteemed publications like Khaleej Times and The Times of India. As a Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is currently researching the lives of children of sex workers in India.

Stay updated with the latest news by following us on Instagram.