India-Germany ties set to strengthen during German Chancellor Merz’s visit

India and Germany are set to further deepen their long-standing strategic partnership during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to India on January 12-13 . The visit, which will include a major stop in Ahmedabad to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi , comes at a time of evolving global challenges and increasing geopolitical tension.

India and Germany share 25 years of strategic ties , covering trade, investment, defence, technology, education, and cultural exchanges. Germany is India’s largest trading partner in the European Union , with bilateral trade in goods and services reaching USD 51.23 billion in 2024-25. Over 2,000 German companies operate in India, and cumulative German investments since 2000 have reached USD 15.4 billion . Cooperation in critical technologies, green hydrogen, and innovation has also grown steadily, reflecting a shared vision for a future driven by sustainable economic and technological growth.

Defence and security ties have seen a marked upswing, with Germany supplying defence equipment and participating in joint counter-terrorism initiatives. A potential Euro 5 billion deal to supply six stealth submarines to the Indian Navy may be finalised during Merz’s visit. Additionally, Germany will deploy a naval liaison officer to India’s Integrated Fusion Centre in the Indian Ocean Region, signalling mutual trust and strategic alignment.

The discussions are expected to extend beyond bilateral cooperation to global issues , including geopolitical challenges such as the situation in Ukraine and the broader security environment. Both nations have maintained a pragmatic, multilateral approach , supporting dialogue over unilateral military action and emphasizing sustainable development, climate cooperation, and technology collaboration.

During his visit, Chancellor Merz will also participate in cultural events in Ahmedabad, including a visit to Sabarmati Ashram, a kite festival, and a skill development programme, before travelling to Bengaluru. His visit comes ahead of the European Union leadership’s planned trip to India, during which the India-EU free trade agreement may be finalised.

With this engagement, I ndia-Germany relations are expected to reach new heights, strengthening economic, strategic, and technological collaboration while contributing to global stability.