Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held extensive bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on Wednesday, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. The meeting marked the second interaction between the two leaders in 2026 and highlighted the growing momentum in ties between New Delhi and Berlin amid evolving global political and economic developments.
During the discussions, both leaders reviewed the progress achieved under ongoing bilateral initiatives and expressed satisfaction with the renewed pace of cooperation following Chancellor Merz's recent visit to India. They also assessed developments stemming from the successful conclusion of negotiations on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement earlier this year, a landmark development expected to enhance trade, investment, and economic cooperation between India and European nations, including Germany.
The two sides reiterated their determination to deepen collaboration across a wide range of sectors, including defence, security, technology, innovation, education, mobility, and sustainable development. A key focus of the meeting was the recently signed Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, which is expected to promote stronger defence manufacturing partnerships, encourage joint projects, and expand industrial cooperation between the two countries.
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Another significant development discussed was the operationalisation of a transit visa waiver for Indian nationals travelling through Germany. The measure is expected to simplify travel procedures and strengthen people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders also emphasized the importance of expanding academic, professional, and cultural linkages as part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral engagement beyond government-to-government cooperation.
The leaders exchanged views on several pressing international and regional issues, including the situation in West Asia and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. They welcomed recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting peace in conflict-affected regions. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to supporting international stability, multilateral cooperation, and peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
Looking ahead, Chancellor Merz invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the eighth India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations scheduled to take place in Germany later this year. The meeting comes as the two nations prepare to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. Germany remains one of India's most important European partners, with strong cooperation in manufacturing, clean energy, technology, and vocational training. Observers believe the latest talks will further strengthen economic ties, resilient supply chains, and collaboration in emerging technologies as both countries seek to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.
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