PM Modi holds 'very fruitful' meeting with German Chancellor Merz at G7, discuss trade, defence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian, France on Wednesday, their second bilateral meeting this year.

The two leaders reviewed progress in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership and expressed satisfaction at the momentum in bilateral ties following Merz's visit to India and the conclusion of India-EU FTA negotiations earlier this year.

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As India and Germany mark 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, Modi and Merz reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation across trade and investment, defence and security, green and sustainable development, technology, innovation, education and mobility.

The two sides signed a Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap and announced the operationalisation of a transit visa waiver for Indian nationals transiting through Germany.

Modi and Merz also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the situation in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They welcomed the understanding reached to end the conflict in West Asia.

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"The discussions with Federal Chancellor Merz were very fruitful. We discussed possibilities for how we can further strengthen bilateral cooperation through joint efforts in the areas of trade, investments, circular economy, defense, IT, and other fields," Modi said.

Merz invited Modi to the 8th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations scheduled to be held later this year in Germany.