Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the expanding cooperation between India and Germany in defence and security as a testament to mutual trust and a shared strategic vision, underscoring the growing depth of bilateral relations between the two nations.
Speaking at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Gandhinagar, the Prime Minister welcomed steps taken by Germany to simplify defence trade procedures and said both countries would work on a roadmap to strengthen cooperation between their defence industries. He noted that this collaboration would open new opportunities for co-development and co-production.
PM Modi highlighted that India and Germany are approaching major diplomatic milestones, with 25 years of strategic partnership completed recently and 75 years of diplomatic relations to be marked in 2026. He said these milestones reflect not just the passage of time, but the steady strengthening of trust and cooperation between the two nations.
The Prime Minister said trade and investment ties have infused new energy into the partnership, with bilateral trade crossing USD 50 billion. He pointed to the presence of over 2,000 German companies in India as evidence of growing confidence in India’s economic potential.
Technology and renewable energy cooperation were also highlighted as key pillars of the relationship. PM Modi announced the establishment of an India-Germany Centre of Excellence to serve as a shared platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and technological collaboration.
Welcoming Chancellor Merz on his first visit to India and Asia, PM Modi said the visit reflected the importance Germany attaches to relations with India. He also expressed gratitude for Germany’s decision to allow visa-free transit for Indian citizens, calling it a significant step toward strengthening people-to-people ties.
The Prime Minister recalled the deep historical connections between the two countries, citing cultural and intellectual exchanges that continue to shape the modern partnership. He said India remains fully committed to expanding its friendship and strategic cooperation with Germany in the years ahead.
