Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Ashram became a bridge between India and Germany as Prime Minister Narendra Modi guided Chancellor Friedrich Merz through Mahatma Gandhi’s historic abode. The Monday morning visit was a highlight of Merz’s two-day trip, blending reverence with diplomatic dialogue.
Photos released by the MEA on social media showed the leaders offering floral tributes to Gandhi’s statue and contemplating his enduring principles. Merz spun the charkha, connecting viscerally with Gandhi’s vision of swadeshi that originated here, the launchpad for the Salt March.
Celebrating ‘shared values,’ the post emphasized how Gandhi’s legacy unites nations. Following the ashram, Modi and Merz headed to Sabarmati Riverfront for the vibrant International Kite Festival, symbolizing the soaring Indo-German relations.
The agenda extended to substantive talks at Gandhinagar’s Mahatma Mandir. Reviewing 25 years of strategic partnership, they delved into expanding cooperation in trade, tech innovation, education, skill enhancement, and labor mobility.
Emerging priorities like defense collaboration, scientific research, sustainable growth, and cultural exchanges were also on the table, aiming to deepen ties across sectors.
Merz’s guest book entry lauded Gandhi’s non-violence philosophy, his trust in liberty’s strength, and commitment to human dignity as timeless inspirations amid contemporary challenges.
This visit exemplifies how cultural heritage can catalyze modern partnerships, with Gandhi’s ashram serving as a timeless venue for leaders to draw inspiration and forge ahead on mutual goals.