German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Begins Official Visit to India
Chancellor Merz's Arrival in India
On Monday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in India for a two-day official visit. He received a grand welcome at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. This visit, prompted by an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is considered highly significant from both strategic and cultural perspectives. It marks Chancellor Merz's first official trip to India since taking office in May 2025, aimed at elevating bilateral relations between the two nations.
Cultural Welcome and Initial Agenda in Ahmedabad
To kick off his two-day visit in a vibrant cultural setting, Chancellor Merz and Prime Minister Modi will visit the Sabarmati Ashram around 9:30 AM on Monday. Following this, they will participate together in the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront at approximately 10 AM, celebrating the traditional spirit and connections between the two countries.
Bilateral Talks and Strategic Engagement in Gandhinagar
Later, starting at 11:15 AM, both leaders will engage in high-level delegation talks at the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. This session is expected to review the progress of the India-Germany strategic partnership, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, and explore ways to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The discussions will focus on expanding collaboration in trade and investment, technology, education, skills, and mobility, as well as advancing relations in defense and security, science and innovation, and promoting green and sustainable development while enhancing people-to-people contacts.
Strengthening Economic and Global Cooperation
The two leaders will also exchange views on regional and global issues and engage with leaders from the business and industrial sectors of both countries. The aim of this visit is to build on the momentum gained from regular high-level political dialogues and to reaffirm a shared vision for a forward-looking strategic partnership that benefits both nations and the global community. Notably, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz last met during the G7 summit in Canada, where they agreed to broaden their bilateral strategic partnership.