New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, along with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, engaged with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Tuesday, expressing their anticipation for a productive summit and enhanced bilateral relations.

In a message on X, Costa noted, "Thank you for your warm welcome, dear Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I look forward to a fruitful summit and a robust partnership between the European Union and India, grounded in shared values and elevated aspirations."

He further emphasized, "Today focuses on delivering concrete benefits for our citizens, collaborating toward mutual prosperity and security, and exhibiting leadership on global matters to cultivate a resilient multipolar world order."

Ursula von der Leyen also shared her thoughts on social media, stating that Europe and India are "making history" with the finalization of the "mother of all deals."

"We have established a free trade zone encompassing two billion people, leading to mutual benefits for both sides. This is merely the beginning. We aim to strengthen our strategic relationship further," she remarked.

Earlier in the day, both leaders paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat.

"A Shared Commitment to Peace. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen honored Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. The enduring principles of peace and non-violence espoused by Gandhi continue to inspire humanity worldwide," stated Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.

Later, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen will represent the EU at the upcoming 16th EU-India Summit, which is set to be hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

Earlier in the day, during the India Energy Week 2026, PM Modi highlighted a "major development," revealing that negotiations on a "significant agreement" between India and the European Union are nearing completion.

"The world refers to this as the 'Mother of All Deals.' This agreement presents immense opportunities for India's 1.4 billion citizens and the numerous individuals in European nations," he stated, referencing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

India and the EU have finalized discussions on a pivotal free trade agreement aimed at bolstering trade and fortifying economic relations. The announcement regarding this deal is expected later today.

The Prime Minister described the FTA as "an exemplary demonstration of harmony between two of the world’s largest economies," which collectively account for nearly 25% of global GDP and roughly one-third of international trade.

"This agreement not only enhances trade but also reinforces our mutual commitment to democracy and the rule of law. Moreover, the free trade agreement with the EU will complement our agreements with Britain and the EFTA, thereby strengthening both trade and global supply chains. I commend the youth of India and all citizens for this achievement," he declared.

He also extended congratulations to all those involved in industries such as textiles, gems and jewelry, leather and footwear, among others.

"This trade agreement will not only stimulate manufacturing in India but will also promote significant growth in services-related sectors. This Free Trade Agreement will further enhance global confidence in India for every business and investor," he remarked.

Earlier on Monday, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen participated as Chief Guests in India's 77th Republic Day festivities.

They expressed their extraordinary experience at the Republic Day celebrations and thanked Prime Minister Modi for the invitation.

Ursula von der Leyen noted that the display of flags from the European Union, the EU Military Staff, and EU maritime missions Atlanta and Aspides at India's Republic Day signifies the deepening security collaboration between both parties.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the participation of EU leaders in the Republic Day celebrations as a "milestone" in India-EU relations.

"For the first time, a contingent comprising the EU Military Staff and the EU Naval Operations ATALANTA and ASPIDES took part in the Republic Day Parade," the MEA highlighted.