German Chancellor Merz Concludes India Visit, Signs 19 Pacts

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz concluded his two-day official visit to India on Tuesday, marking an important step in strengthening the India–Germany partnership . The visit focused on expanding cooperation in technology , innovation , trade, and scientific collaboration, while also deepening long-term institutional ties between the two countries.

During his visit, Merz travelled to Bengaluru, where he visited Bosch India headquarters. He was briefed on several next-generation innovations developed in India, underscoring the country’s growing significance in global technology ecosystems and industrial development.

After the Bosch programme, Merz visited IISc , where he toured research facilities and reviewed India’s progress in nano-technology . The visit highlighted Germany’s interest in expanding cooperation in higher education, scientific development, and advanced research partnerships.

Earlier, Merz held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which both sides finalised 19 agreements across defence, technology, education, and industrial cooperation. A key outcome was strengthening defence cooperation through co-development and co-production, alongside partnerships in telecommunications and other critical sectors. Discussions also reportedly included emerging areas such as semiconductors and critical minerals , reflecting a shared focus on building resilient supply chains for future technologies.

Beyond bilateral projects, both sides emphasised cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and supported connectivity frameworks like IMEC to strengthen trade and infrastructure linkages. At the India–Germany CEOs Forum, Chancellor Merz strongly pushed for the early conclusion of the India–EU FTA , calling it crucial for unlocking the full economic potential of bilateral trade ties and enabling increased trade and investment .

The visit also included cultural engagements and symbolic outreach. The trip gained added significance as it coincided with 25 years of strategic relations, with both countries aiming to deepen research collaboration and strengthen broader strategic ties in the years ahead.