India-Germany Bilateral Cooperation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met during the India-Germany CEOs Forum in Ahmedabad on January 12, 2026, to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, prominently in defence.
Defence Cooperation
- Both nations signed an agreement to strengthen bilateral defence industrial cooperation.
- Focus on co-production and co-development was emphasized.
- Prime Minister Modi announced a roadmap to enhance cooperation between defence industries of both countries.
- A consultation mechanism will be launched to increase collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
Other Areas of Cooperation
- Several MoUs and Joint Declarations of Intent were signed covering:
- Recruitment of skilled professionals by Germany
- Sports
- Higher education
- The visit coincided with 25 years of strategic partnership and 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Germany.
Global and Regional Issues
- Discussions included conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip.
- Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's condemnation of terrorism and advocated for peaceful resolution of disputes.
Trade Relations
- Bilateral trade crossed $50 billion, energizing the relationship.
- Chancellor Merz urged strengthening of global supply chains, opposing protectionism.
- Potential conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement by the end of the month.
Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA)
- Commitment to fight illegal immigration, human trafficking, and document fraud.
- A Joint Declaration of Intent focused on recruiting healthcare professionals to meet Germany's demands.
