German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is scheduled to visit India from January 12 to 13, marking his first official trip to the country as Chancellor. The visit, made at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Germany and explore opportunities for future collaboration.

Prime Minister Modi will welcome Chancellor Merz in Ahmedabad on January 12. Following engagements in Ahmedabad, including talks with Prime Minister Modi, Chancellor Merz will then travel to Bengaluru.

During the two-day visit, the leaders will review the progress made in the diverse aspects of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. Discussions will focus on strengthening cooperation across various sectors, including trade and investment, technology, education, skilling, and mobility. They will also explore advancing collaboration in domains such as defense and security, science, innovation and research, green and sustainable development, and fostering stronger people-to-people connections.

In addition to bilateral talks, Chancellor Merz and Prime Minister Modi will engage with business and industry leaders to exchange views on regional and global issues. This interaction highlights the importance of economic ties between the two countries and the potential for enhanced trade and investment.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the visit would build on the positive momentum generated by regular high-level interactions between India and Germany. It offers a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of both nations in building a forward-looking partnership that benefits their citizens and contributes to the wider global community.

The visit also occurs ahead of the India-EU Summit scheduled for January 27. Furthermore, India is preparing to host French President Emmanuel Macron next month for the AI Summit.

Notably, Prime Minister Modi is expected to inaugurate the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot at Marwadi University on January 11, with the aim of attracting investments to the Saurashtra and Kutch regions. Gujarat will also host the International Kite Festival and the Ahmedabad International Flower Show 2026 during this period, with Prime Minister Modi expected to attend these events.

Chancellor Merz and Prime Minister Modi last met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, where they agreed to expand the bilateral strategic partnership. Prime Minister Modi extended the invitation for an official visit to New Delhi during this meeting.