Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held delegation-level talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ahmedabad during the latter’s first official visit to India. Addressing a joint press conference, Modi said the Indo-Pacific region is a high priority for both India and Germany.  

“India stands for the peaceful resolution of all problems and disputes and supports all efforts being made in this direction. We are unanimous that terrorism is the ultimate evil of humanity, and India and Germany will continue to fight it resolutely,” the Prime Minister said. He added that reform of global institutions is essential to address contemporary global challenges.   

Modi described cooperation between India and Germany as “important for the whole of humanity” and extended a warm welcome to Chancellor Merz on behalf of the country. Welcoming the German leader to India and to his home state of Gujarat, Modi thanked him for his personal commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.   

Talks between two leaders focus on deepening cooperation in trade 

Discussions between the two leaders focused on deepening cooperation in trade, investment, technology, education, skilling and mobility, while also exploring collaboration in defence, security, science, innovation, research and sustainable development. 

Highlighting Gujarat’s tradition of hospitality, Modi said, “We say in Gujarat that guests are welcomed with 'sneh' and 'atmiyata'. We welcome Chancellor Merz in that spirit.” 

Economic engagement between two countries continues to expand, says Modi 

The Prime Minister said economic engagement between the two countries continues to expand, with nearly 2,000 German companies operating in India, reflecting growing confidence in India as an investment destination. He said technology and sustainability remain key pillars of the partnership, particularly in renewable energy. 

“We have advanced technology cooperation in renewable energy, and we have decided to establish an India-Germany Centre of Excellence,” Modi said, adding that collaboration on green hydrogen projects would be a “game changer”. 

Chancellor Merz is on a two-day official visit to India, which coincides with the celebrations marking 75 years of diplomatic relations and 25 years of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. The visit aims to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. 

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were also present at the meeting.