Ahmedabad: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in India on Monday on his first official visit. Invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chancellor Merz was accorded a grand welcome at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. This two-day visit is being seen as highly significant, as it coincides with the completion of 25 years of the strategic partnership between India and Germany.
At the start of the visit, both leaders visited the Sabarmati Ashram, where they paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Following this, Chancellor Merz and Prime Minister Modi participated in the International Kite Festival held at the Sabarmati Riverfront. The event not only symbolized the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries but also reinforced their cultural and historical connections.
Bilateral Talks and Key Agenda
Extensive bilateral discussions were held between the two leaders during a high-level meeting at the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. The talks primarily focused on trade, investment, defence, and security. In addition, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as technology, education, skill development, and green and sustainable growth. The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to mutual cooperation in innovation and scientific research.
Economic and Global Significance
Chancellor Merz is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including CEOs of major German companies. The visit is taking place just ahead of the India–European Union Summit scheduled for January 27, adding to its diplomatic importance. Special emphasis was placed on self-reliance in the defence sector and the mobility of skilled professionals.
According to German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann, India is a key pillar of Germany’s foreign policy. The two leaders had last met during the G7 Summit in Canada, where the framework for this visit was outlined. This visit is expected to elevate economic and global cooperation between India and Germany to new heights in the coming years.
