German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in India on Monday for a two-day official visit, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office in May 2025. He was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where the two leaders commenced their engagements with a blend of cultural and strategic discussions.
The visit, scheduled from January 12th to 13th, occurs at the invitation of PM Modi. It aims to strengthen the economic and security ties between Germany and India, particularly in light of the turbulent global order and economic challenges posed by the United States and China.
The leaders began their day with a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, a location of significant historical importance as Mahatma Gandhi's spiritual retreat. Following the visit, they participated in the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront, highlighting the cultural and people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Bilateral discussions are scheduled to take place at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. These talks are expected to cover a wide range of topics, including trade and investment, technology, education, skilling and mobility, defense and security, science, innovation and research, and green and sustainable development. Both leaders will also engage with business and industry leaders to exchange views on regional and global issues.
A key focus of the visit is to advance the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Discussions will explore ways to deepen cooperation across various sectors, with an emphasis on strengthening economic relations. Germany is particularly interested in enhancing access to India's critical minerals, seeking to diversify its supply chains and reduce dependence on China for rare earths and other essential raw materials. To this end, both countries are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on the matter.
The visit also occurs in the lead-up to the India-EU Summit scheduled for January 27th. Chancellor Merz is expected to use the meeting with PM Modi to accelerate negotiations between the European Union and India on a free trade agreement. The goal is to finalize a deal by the time EU President Ursula von der Leyen visits India later in January.
In the realm of defense, a potential deal is under discussion that would involve Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems building six submarines for the Indian Navy in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. This deal would help India modernize its aging submarine fleet and includes provisions for technology transfer to support the development of India's domestic defense industry.
According to a government spokesman in Berlin, Merz's choice of India for his first trip to Asia as chancellor "demonstrates how India, the world's largest democracy, is an important strategic partner for Germany". This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership and address shared global challenges.
