EU Commission chief honors Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat

New Delhi

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on a two-day visit to India, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi on Thursday. She reflected on Gandhi's message of universal peace, as shared by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Upon her arrival in Delhi, von der Leyen was welcomed by Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel. The MEA highlighted her visit as a step towards strengthening the EU-India partnership.

On Friday, she will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss enhancing strategic ties. In a post on X, she emphasized India's role as a trusted friend and strategic ally amid global conflicts and competition.

This marks her third visit to India, following a bilateral visit in April 2022 and participation in the G20 Leaders' Summit in September 2023. She has also held regular discussions with PM Modi at multilateral events.

The visit is significant as it includes the first-ever trip of the entire EU College of Commissioners to India. The MEA noted that this visit is among the first major engagements of the European Commission since its mandate began in December 2024, following the European parliamentary elections in June 2024.