German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit India from January 12-13, the Ministry of External Affairs announced on Monday (January 5, 2026). The visit will begin from Ahmedabad where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the German leader on January 12. The ministry said, “The two leaders will take stock of the progress made in various aspects of the India-Germany strategic partnership, which completed 25 years last year.

” The ministry said the discussions will include cooperation in trade and investment, technology exchange, education, skills and labor mobility. This will be Mr. Merz’s first visit to India.

The Foreign Ministry said bilateral discussions during Chancellor Merz’s visit will include defense and security issues. The visit, taking place against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the US intervention in Venezuela, will also provide an opportunity for India to exchange notes on some of the enduring political and security challenges facing the global community.

“This will provide a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of India and Germany to build a visionary partnership for the benefit of the people of both countries and the broader global community,” the ministry said. The discussion will also include green and sustainable development and people-to-people ties. Apart from Ahmedabad, Mr.

Merz and his team will also be hosted in Bengaluru.