India, Jan. 27 -- Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, the two top leaders of the 27-nation European Union, on Monday watched India's 77th Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Kartavya Path, joining a select group of global leaders to have graced the nation's biggest ceremonial event in the last several decades.

European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen witnessed the grand military parade and the cultural performances along with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, members of the Union Cabinet, foreign diplomats and a host of other dignitaries. It was the first time that two top leaders of the European Union (EU) attended India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests. ...