German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to embark on a two-day official visit to India, starting January 12, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit will kick off with discussions between Merz and PM Modi in Ahmedabad, followed by a joint appearance at the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront. Subsequent bilateral engagements are planned at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, marking Chancellor Merz’s inaugural official visit to India.
The Prime Minister’s Office disclosed that the leaders will assess the progress of the 25-year-old India-Germany Strategic Partnership during their meeting. The agenda includes enhancing collaboration in trade, investment, technology, education, and defense, among other areas. Additionally, they will delve into regional and global issues and interact with business and industry representatives from both nations.
Preceding Chancellor Merz’s visit, German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann met with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh to discuss bilateral security and defense matters, emphasizing joint development and production of defense equipment. The meeting underscored the robust ties between India and Germany across various sectors, as highlighted by PM Modi during previous encounters with Chancellor Merz at international summits.
