German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to Visit India on January 12–13

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to visit India on January 12 and 13, 2026. The high-level visit comes at a crucial time for India–Germany relations, with both countries seeking deeper cooperation in trade, technology, climate action, and global governance. The visit is expected to further strengthen strategic and economic engagement.

Why in the News?

Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, will pay an official visit to India on January 12–13, 2026. The visit aims to enhance India–Germany cooperation across economic, strategic, and global issues.

Purpose of the Visit

The visit is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations between India and Germany. Discussions are likely to cover trade and investment, clean energy cooperation, climate change, digital technologies, and defence collaboration. Both sides may also exchange views on global challenges, including supply chain resilience and geopolitical stability.

India-Germany Strategic Partnership

India and Germany share a long-standing strategic partnership. Germany is one of India’s most important partners in Europe, especially in manufacturing, renewable energy, and technology. Regular intergovernmental consultations and high-level visits have helped expand cooperation in innovation, skill development, and sustainable growth.

Germany’s Role for India

Germany is India’s largest trading partner in the European Union. It plays a key role in India’s green transition, Industry 4.0 initiatives, and vocational training programmes. Strong people-to-people ties and business cooperation form the backbone of the bilateral relationship.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Germany is India’s largest trading partner in which region?

A. Asia
B. Africa
C. European Union
D. North America