Germany-India Relations: The Merz Era
Strategic Update • Post-2025

Following Chancellor Friedrich Merz's historic visit, bilateral relations have shifted from consultation to action. This infographic explores the "New Era" defined by economic de-risking, defense modernization, and talent mobility.

The Three Pillars of Cooperation

The core drivers of the renewed strategic partnership.

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Trade & De-risking

Diversifying supply chains away from single-market dependencies. Focusing on high-tech manufacturing in India.

🛡️

Defense Alignment

Reducing India's reliance on Russian hardware through Project-75I (Submarines) and aeronautics cooperation.

🎓

Talent Mobility

Addressing Germany's 400k/year skilled labor gap via the Migration and Mobility Partnership.

Economic Trajectory

Bilateral trade has surged past €35 Billion. With the new "India First" trade doctrine, the target is set to reach €50 Billion by 2030, accelerated by ongoing FTA negotiations.

2020 Baseline 2030 Target
70% to Target

The Talent Pipeline

Indian citizens now form the largest group of foreign students in Germany, surpassing China. This demographic is pivotal for Germany's STEM and healthcare sectors.

  • ~50,000+ Indian Students
  • 96% Employment Rate (Post-Study)
  • Visa Wait Times: Reduced by 40%

Future Frontiers: Energy & Security

€10Bn Green Partnership Mix

Focus: Hydrogen Task Force & Solar Grid

Project-75I: Strategic Shift

Historical Context

Heavy reliance on Russian naval hardware.

German Proposal (TKMS)

Government-to-Government (G2G) framework for 6 stealth submarines.

Outcome

Tech transfer & strategic autonomy for Indian Navy.

Data sourced from Federal Foreign Office (AA), Destatis, and 2025 Joint Statements.

Infographic by Beyond the Horizon ISSG

Created with HTML, Tailwind CSS, and Chart.js

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