AHMEDABAD, India (Diya TV) — India and Germany reinforced their growing partnership on Monday as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met in Gujarat, highlighting shared values, expanding cooperation, and deep mutual trust between the two nations. The visit marked a major milestone in bilateral ties, as India and Germany celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations and 25 years of their Strategic Partnership. Merz is on a two-day official visit to India, his first trip to Asia since taking office.
Modi and Merz shared a car ride after their engagements, a gesture that quickly drew attention for its symbolism. Posting a photo on X, Modi said the friendship between India and Germany continues to grow through shared values, extensive cooperation, and mutual understanding.
Earlier in the day, the two leaders visited the historic Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad. They later traveled in an open vehicle along the Sabarmati Riverfront, where residents gathered to greet them. The leaders also joined cultural activities, including kite flying, adding a personal and festive touch to the diplomatic visit. Modi also inaugurated the International Kite Festival 2026, organized by the Gujarat government, giving the visit a strong cultural dimension and showcasing India’s traditions to the German leader.
The friendly moments followed formal delegation-level talks between the two sides. Addressing a joint press conference, Merz described India as a “partner of choice” for Germany. He stressed that finalizing free trade negotiations between India and the European Union remains vital for unlocking the full potential of India-Germany economic relations.
Merz said a comprehensive trade agreement would deepen economic ties, boost investment, and support stable global supply chains. Germany sees India as a key partner in its strategy to diversify trade and reduce risks in a changing global economy. Modi echoed this vision and said both countries aim to make their economic partnership “limitless.” He noted that cooperation will now expand beyond traditional sectors into strategic areas that shape future growth.
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen defense cooperation. The agreement focuses on joint development, production, innovation, and the strengthening of global defense supply chains. Merz said deeper cooperation between defense industries holds strong strategic value for both countries. He added that the partnership will promote innovation and help build resilient supply networks.
Modi also highlighted the importance of defense collaboration. Speaking at the India-Germany CEOs Forum, he said the two nations exchanged a Joint Declaration of Intent to deepen cooperation in the defense sector. He described the move as a sign of growing trust and shared strategic interests.
Modi thanked Merz for choosing India as his first destination in Asia. He said the decision reflects India’s rising global role and Germany’s confidence in the partnership. Modi added that the visit aligns with Germany’s diversification strategy and signals a high level of trust between the two countries. Merz expressed gratitude for the invitation to Gujarat, Modi’s home state. He called the gesture a sign of deep ties and personal friendship. He said the warmth shown during the visit reflects the strong foundation of India-Germany relations.
