In a resounding endorsement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Friedrich Merz’s landmark visit to India as a game-changer for India-Germany relations. The CDU leader’s whirlwind tour breathed vitality into the bilateral framework, setting the stage for expansive cooperation in critical global arenas.
Merz’s itinerary was packed with substantive dialogues, starting with a one-on-one with PM Modi at the Parliament House. Topics ranged from bolstering trade volumes—already surpassing €20 billion annually—to pioneering advancements in hydrogen energy and digital infrastructure. Modi noted, ‘Your visit has injected new vigor into our friendship,’ reflecting on decades of fruitful collaboration since the 1950s.
Geopolitical undercurrents added depth to the discussions. With Germany’s elections looming, Merz positioned India as a cornerstone ally in navigating uncertainties from Ukraine to the South China Sea. Commitments were made to enhance defense interoperability, including joint exercises and technology transfers. Economic blueprints emerged, targeting €50 billion in trade by 2030 through streamlined investments.
Innovation took center stage, with both sides unveiling a roadmap for R&D hubs in biotech and quantum computing. Merz lauded India’s youthful demographic dividend, proposing skill-exchange programs to harness this potential. Environmental pledges included co-developing sustainable aviation fuels, aligning with net-zero ambitions.
The visit’s ripple effects extend to multilateral forums. India and Germany vowed closer alignment at the G20 and UN, advocating for reformed global governance. Public reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with business leaders from both nations hailing the proactive diplomacy. As Merz departs, the promise of a ‘new chapter’ lingers, fortified by personal rapport between the leaders. This strategic embrace could redefine Europe’s engagement with Asia.