Germany Seeks to Forge Stronger Defence Ties with India Amid Strategic Realignment

Chancellor Olaf Scholz aims to strengthen defence ties with India to reduce Germany's dependence on China and join India's efforts to diversify its arms base from Russia. During talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Scholz discussed military cooperation and ongoing trade negotiations with the EU.

In a significant geopolitical move, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced intentions to enhance defence relations with India, aiming to bring the countries' militaries closer together. This was a central theme during his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of Germany's strategy to diversify its trade and defence partnerships.

Germany, historically lacking strong defence collaborations with India, is now positioning itself as a key player in helping India reduce its long-standing reliance on Russian military hardware. Scholz underscored that more cooperation, not less, is essential, aligning both nations' interests against the backdrop of rising tensions with China.

The diplomatic visit, accompanied by high-profile German officials, also addressed economic ties, as Germany eyes the Indian market to lessen its dependence on China. Concurrently, trade negotiations between India and the EU face complexities, with agriculture as a sticking point, potentially hindering the finalization of a free-trade pact.

(With inputs from agencies.)