Ahmedabad’s skyline witnessed history on January 12 as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, culminating in 27 agreements that promise to supercharge India-Germany partnership. From AI and semiconductors to renewable energy and healthcare, the deals announced by India’s Foreign Ministry underscore a shared vision for innovation and security.
Merz’s Gujarat visit kicked off with dynamic engagements, leading to a joint resolve to deepen defense industrial collaboration. Economic momentum built through a new CEO Forum and its integration into the India-Germany Economic and Investment Committee, fostering business synergies.
Semiconductors emerged as a cornerstone with the dedicated India-Germany Ecosystem Partnership. Complementary pacts covered critical minerals, telecom, and green fuels, highlighted by AM Green’s offtake deal with Uniper for green ammonia production.
Institutional tie-ups proliferated: MoUs linked India’s electronics institute with Infineon, Ayurveda body with Charité Berlin, and energy regulator PNGRB with DVGW. Bio-economy R&D and IGSTC extension furthered scientific bonds.
Skills and education priorities included higher education roadmaps, ethical healthcare worker recruitment via Global Skills Partnership, and a renewable energy excellence center in Hyderabad. Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex advanced through an MoU with Germany’s Leibniz Institute.
Sports diplomacy shone with Hockey India-German Federation youth pact, while postal services aligned via India Post-Deutsche Post JDI. Practical eased travel with visa-free German transit for Indians.
Strategic dialogues launched: Track 1.5 foreign policy talks, Indo-Pacific forum, and a triennial digital action plan. GSDP funding hit €1.24 billion, targeting green hydrogen, e-buses, and resilient cities. Renewable investments expanded via a new battery group, and development projects grew in Africa.
Merz’s honorary consulate opening in Ahmedabad capped a visit reinforcing mutual growth in a multipolar world.
