German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) will depart for India on Sunday for his first official visit to the country since taking office. The trip also marks his first visit to Asia as chancellor; a visit to China is planned for several weeks later. On Monday, Merz is scheduled to be officially received by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad. On Tuesday, the chancellor will continue on to the industrial hub of Bangalore. Merz will be accompanied by a large business delegation.
With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, India offers German companies a vast market and a pool of well-trained skilled workers. Germany and the European Union also view the world’s most populous country as an important geopolitical partner. India is in competition with China and, like the EU, has been affected by the tariff policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. At the same time, Modi continues to maintain good relations with Russia.
During the visit, Chancellor Merz aims to strengthen India’s economic and security ties with Europe. According to government sources in Berlin on Saturday, India is currently seeking cooperation partners in the areas of security and defense. “This offers opportunities to reduce India’s dependence on Russia in this sector.”
The plan includes deepening cooperation between the Indian and German defense industries. India is described as a “key partner in Asia.” Ahead of the trip, the Handelsblatt reported progress in negotiations over a potential submarine deal with India. The submarine and frigate manufacturer Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is expected to equip the Indian Navy with six modern submarines. Negotiations on the project have been ongoing for years.
Merz will arrive in India on Sunday and is set to be received by Prime Minister Modi on Monday in Ahmedabad, located in the state of Gujarat. Modi himself comes from Gujarat, and the Federal Chancellery views the invitation to Ahmedabad as “a special sign of Modi’s personal appreciation, which until now has been extended only to selected heads of government,” according to government sources.
The chancellor will be accompanied by a business delegation representing around 25 companies. On Tuesday, he is scheduled to visit Bangalore, one of India’s leading centers for industry and research, including a visit to a local plant operated by Bosch. In addition to its large market, India offers German companies access to a significant number of highly qualified professionals.
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