Antonio Costa is a prominent Portuguese politician who currently serves as the President of the European Council, a position he assumed on December 1, 2024. He is the chief guest for India’s 77th Republic Day parade today, January 26, 2026, alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Indian Connection Costa has significant personal ties to India, which he often highlights:
- Goan Roots: His father, Orlando da Costa, was born in Mozambique but had deep ancestral roots in Goa.
- OCI Holder: He holds an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card and has previously visited the country, including as the chief guest for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in 2017.
- Local Moniker: In Goa, he is affectionately known as “Babush” (meaning a young loved one in Konkani).
Political Career
Before leading the European Council, Costa had a long career in Portuguese and European politics:
- Prime Minister of Portugal: He served as the 119th Prime Minister of Portugal for nearly nine years, from 2015 to 2024.
- Mayor of Lisbon: He was the Mayor of Lisbon from 2007 to 2015.
- European Leadership: He has previously served as a Vice-President of the European Parliament (2004–2005) and held various ministerial roles in Portugal, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Internal Administration.
Role as European Council President In his current role, Costa is responsible for:
- Chaired Summits: Leading meetings of the heads of state or government of the 27 EU member states.
- External Representation: Representing the EU globally on issues of common foreign and security policy.
- Diplomatic Mission: His visit to India coincides with the 16th India-EU Summit, aimed at finalizing a long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
