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Germany and India Forge Stronger Economic, Defense Partnerships

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's two-day visit to India aimed to deepen economic and defense ties and press for the EU-India free trade agreement.
Merz and Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced 19 agreements, including visa-free transit for Indian travelers.
They also outlined a framework for recruiting Indian healthcare workers.
They discussed a potential deal for six submarines to modernize India's naval capabilities, underscoring Germany's defense partnership with India.

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Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's two-day visit to India aimed to deepen economic and defense ties and press for the EU-India free trade agreement.
Merz and Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced 19 agreements, including visa-free transit for Indian travelers.
They also outlined a framework for recruiting Indian healthcare workers.
They discussed a potential deal for six submarines to modernize India's naval capabilities, underscoring Germany's defense partnership with India.