NewKerala.com

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Arrives in India for Key Bilateral Talks with PM Modi

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has arrived in Ahmedabad for his first official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The leaders will engage in a series of events, including a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and the International Kite Festival, followed by bilateral talks in Gandhinagar. Discussions will focus on intensifying cooperation across trade, investment, defence, security, and green development. The visit aims to advance the strategic partnership between the two nations ahead of the upcoming India-EU Summit.

Key Points: German Chancellor Merz Visits India for Talks with PM Modi

  • Review 25-year Strategic Partnership
  • Boost trade, tech & defence ties
  • Engage at Sabarmati Ashram & Kite Festival
  • Discuss regional & global issues
2 min read

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives at Ahmedabad Airport on his first official visit to India

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz begins a 2-day official visit to India, meeting PM Modi in Ahmedabad to strengthen strategic partnership & cooperation.

"The visit is expected to build on momentum... to reaffirm India and Germany's shared vision - Official Statement"

Ahmedabad, January 12

Federal Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, arrived at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. He is on an official visit to India from January 12-13 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

PM Modi will meet Friedrich Merz today in Ahmedabad. This will be Merz's first official visit to India.

At around 9:30 am on January 12, the two leaders will visit the Sabarmati Ashram and at around 10 am, they will participate in the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront. This will be followed by bilateral engagements from 11:15 am onwards at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.

The two leaders will review progress on the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently marked its 25th anniversary. Their discussion will also focus on further intensifying cooperation in trade and investment, technology, education, skilling and mobility, while advancing collaboration in key areas of defence and security, science, innovation and research, green and sustainable development, and people-to-people ties.

Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance and engage with business and industry leaders of the two countries.

The visit is expected to build on momentum from regular high-level political interactions and provide an opportunity to reaffirm India and Germany's shared vision to develop a forward-looking partnership for the benefit of both countries and the wider global community.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Merz last held discussions on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, where the two leaders agreed to further broaden the bilateral strategic partnership.

During that interaction, Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to the German Chancellor for an official visit to New Delhi.The visit is also taking place in the lead-up to the India-EU Summit scheduled for January 27.

The visit is significant as German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann on Saturday spoke about cooperation between India and Germany in defence and security areas, asserting that the strategic partnership between the nations has grown over the years.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's wonderful to see such high-level engagement. Starting the visit at Sabarmati Ashram is a thoughtful gesture, showing respect for India's history and Gandhian values. The International Kite Festival is a perfect cultural touchpoint. Well planned!
V
Vikram M
Defence and security cooperation is the most crucial part. With the global situation being what it is, strong ties with a European power like Germany are essential for our strategic autonomy. Hope they discuss concrete steps, not just statements.
P
Priya S
While the optics are good, I hope the discussions on trade are balanced. We need access for our IT professionals and easier mobility, not just German companies setting up shop here. The partnership should be a two-way street.
R
Rohit P
Gujarat hosting such an important visit makes me proud! Mahatma Mandir is a fantastic venue. This will surely boost the state's profile as an investment destination. Jai Hind!
M
Michael C
The timing before the India-EU Summit is strategic. Germany's support can be pivotal in shaping a more constructive EU-India relationship, especially on trade agreements. A lot hinges on this visit.
K
Kavya N
Science and innovation collaboration is the real win-win. German

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50