Kananaskis, Canada: In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday, marking their first formal interaction since Merz assumed office in May 2025.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated Chancellor Merz on his recent electoral victory and appointment, expressing confidence in Germany’s continued role as a strategic partner to India. He also conveyed his gratitude for the condolences extended by the German government following the recent plane crash in Ahmedabad.
The leaders held wide-ranging discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the context of the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the sustained momentum in relations and agreed to enhance cooperation in several key sectors.
Bilateral Priorities: Trade, Defence, and Climate Action
The conversation focused on expanding collaboration in trade and investment, with both sides expressing interest in boosting economic engagement in manufacturing, digital technologies, and infrastructure. Defence and security cooperation was identified as a priority area, as India and Germany look to align on shared regional and global concerns, especially in the Indo-Pacific.
Green energy and climate change mitigation featured prominently in the dialogue. Modi and Merz reaffirmed their commitment to the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership, exploring deeper collaboration in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and clean technology innovation.
On the technology front, the leaders discussed potential cooperation in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and critical minerals—emerging sectors that are reshaping the global economy.
Education and People-to-People Exchange
Both leaders underlined the importance of facilitating greater academic collaboration and mobility for students and skilled professionals. They emphasized the need to expand institutional partnerships and promote research and innovation through government and university-led programs.
Shared Stance Against Terrorism
Reiterating their commitment to global peace and stability, the two leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms. Prime Minister Modi thanked Chancellor Merz for Germany’s continued support of India’s counter-terrorism efforts. They agreed on the urgency of dismantling terror networks and disrupting their sources of funding.
Looking Ahead
The leaders also exchanged views on major international developments and the need for reform in global governance institutions. With India emerging as a vital player in global supply chains and Germany reinforcing its leadership within the EU, both leaders saw significant potential in closer multilateral cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Chancellor Merz to visit India, which was warmly accepted. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides looking forward to deeper strategic alignment in the years to come.
The Modi-Merz meeting underscores a growing convergence between India and Germany on economic, environmental, and security goals — setting the tone for a more robust partnership between the two global democracies.
For more details, check press release at PIB website.
