Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held delegation-level talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar, focusing on strengthening cooperation across a wide range of sectors.
The meeting took place as part of Chancellor Merz’s first official visit to India, which coincides with the completion of 75 years of India–Germany diplomatic relations and 25 years of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were among those present during the meeting.
During the talks, the two leaders reviewed progress under the Strategic Partnership and discussed ways to further intensify cooperation in trade and investment, technology, education, skilling and mobility. They also explored collaboration in defence and security, science, innovation and research, green and sustainable development, and people-to-people ties. Regional and global issues of mutual interest were also discussed.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi welcomed Merz at the Sabarmati Ashram, where both leaders paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and viewed an exhibition on his life and legacy. The German Chancellor also signed the visitors’ book at the Ashram.
Following this, the two leaders jointly inaugurated the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront. They were accorded a warm reception and presented with traditional Gujarati scarves, as artists showcased folk music and dance to mark the occasion. PM Modi and Merz also flew kites, joining the celebrations of Uttarayan, with the Prime Minister flying a specially designed kite bearing the message “Bharat – Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
Large crowds gathered along the riverfront, waving Indian and German flags, reflecting the strong people-to-people connect between the two countries. The Prime Minister was also seen explaining the cultural significance of the festival and its traditions to the visiting leader.
According to the MEA, Merz’s India visit builds on the momentum generated by regular high-level interactions and provides an opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of India and Germany for a forward-looking partnership that benefits both nations and contributes positively to the global community.
(With agency inputs)
