NEW DELHI — On Friday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz engaged in extensive discussions aimed at enhancing the strategic partnership between their respective countries. This dialogue is particularly significant as Germany endeavors to strengthen ties with India amid Western efforts to counterbalance China’s rising influence in the region.
The leaders convened in New Delhi and celebrated the signing of multiple agreements designed to advance collaboration across various sectors, including defense, information technology, clean energy, skill development, and artificial intelligence. Chancellor Scholz, who was joined by several prominent ministers and business leaders, is leading a high-profile delegation during his visit to India, which spans three days.
Following their meeting, Scholz acknowledged Germany’s position as India’s primary trading partner within the European Union and expressed his commitment to further expanding these economic ties. “As chancellor, I am particularly advocating for a progressive free trade agreement between India and the European Union,” he stated. “All parties stand to gain significantly from this, and we should strive to make tangible progress in this area.”
He highlighted positive developments regarding the recruitment of skilled labor from India, specifically in critical areas such as medicine, nursing care, and information technology. “We aim to attract even more skilled workers from your nation to Germany,” Scholz told Modi.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi announced an increase in the number of visas allocated to skilled Indian professionals from 20,000 to 90,000, further enhancing opportunities for workforce exchange between the two countries.
During the discussions, Scholz encouraged India to take a more active role in urging Russia to conclude its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “This prolonged war, which has caused immense suffering and loss of life, must come to an end. The sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine must be upheld,” he emphasized.
While Western allies are hopeful for India’s influence in encouraging Russia to cease its aggression, Modi has chosen to refrain from outright condemnation of Russia, instead stressing the importance of a peaceful resolution. He has consistently called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting those initiatives.
After the conclusion of their dialogue, Modi expressed his views on global governance, asserting that there are significant deficiencies in 20th-century institutions, which fail to effectively tackle 21st-century challenges. He reiterated India’s long-standing aspiration for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, citing the country’s vast population of over 1.4 billion people.
The prime minister also pointed out serious issues regarding the rule of law and navigation freedoms in the Indo-Pacific region, where he noted China’s escalating impact.
Traditionally, Germany has not maintained close defense connections with India. However, Modi has previously indicated that there exists untapped potential for defense collaboration. In a notable development, Germany’s Thyssenkrupp is expected to collaborate with Indian companies to construct six advanced conventional submarines within India.
On Saturday, Chancellor Scholz is scheduled to tour a German frigate and a supply vessel currently stationed in Goa, where they are participating in joint maneuvers with the Indian navy.