German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Official Visit to India

Arrival and Itinerary

New Delhi: German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Monday for a two-day official visit to India from January 12 to 13. This visit is extended at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi and marks Chancellor Merz’s first official trip to the country.

PM Modi is set to meet Merz in Ahmedabad today. Their itinerary includes a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram at around 9:30 AM, followed by participation in the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront at around 10 AM. Bilateral engagements will commence from 11:15 AM onwards at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.

Strengthening India-Germany Ties

During these discussions, the leaders will review progress in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. They will focus on intensifying cooperation across several key sectors:

• Trade and Investment
• Technology
• Education and Skills Development
• Defence and Security
• Science and Innovation
• Green and Sustainable Development
• People-to-People Ties

Recent Interactions and Future Collaborations

This visit builds on a series of high-level interactions between India and Germany. The two leaders last met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, where they agreed to further expand their bilateral strategic partnership. During that meeting, PM Modi extended a formal invitation to Merz for his visit to India.

Significance Ahead of the India-EU Summit

The timing of this visit also holds significance as it precedes the India-EU Summit scheduled for January 27. Speaking on India-Germany cooperation, German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann emphasized the growth of their strategic partnership, particularly in defence and security, stating, “The strategic partnership between the nations has grown over the years.”

This official visit by Chancellor Merz is a pivotal step in reinforcing the robust ties between India and Germany, paving the way for future collaborations and mutual benefits.