India and Germany Strengthen Defence Ties with New Pact
India and Germany sign pact for defence ties, discuss global supply chains.
Photo by Patryk Jasiński
India and Germany have signed a pact to strengthen defence ties, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of their strategic partnership and 75 years of diplomatic relations. During German Chancellor Merz's visit, discussions included regional issues like the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, with PM Modi reiterating India’s condemnation of terrorism.
Chancellor Merz urged India to partner with Germany in strengthening global supply chains, noting a rise in protectionism that hurts India-Germany trade ties. A ‘Joint Declaration of Intent’ was also signed to address Germany’s demand for healthcare professionals.
Key Facts
India, Germany sign pact for defence ties
Marks 25 years of strategic partnership
Discussed Ukraine, Gaza conflicts
Joint Declaration of Intent signed
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: International Relations, Bilateral Agreements
GS Paper III: Defence Cooperation, Technology Transfer
Potential for questions on India's foreign policy, strategic partnerships
Visual Insights
India-Germany Strategic Partnership
Map showing key locations and areas of cooperation between India and Germany, highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership.
Loading interactive map...
More Information
Background
The strategic partnership between India and Germany, formalized in 2000, has deeper roots in post-World War II relations. West Germany was among the first nations to recognize India's independence and fostered economic ties through technological assistance and industrial collaborations. During the Cold War, while India maintained a non-aligned stance, West Germany's economic model and democratic values resonated with Indian policymakers.
The reunification of Germany in 1990 and India's economic liberalization in 1991 created new avenues for cooperation. The initial focus was on trade and investment, but over time, it expanded to include defense, security, and climate change, reflecting a growing convergence of interests and shared values.
Latest Developments
In recent years, India and Germany have intensified their cooperation on renewable energy, sustainable development, and digital transformation. Germany has been a key partner in India's efforts to modernize its infrastructure and promote green technologies. The Indo-German Energy Forum, established in 2006, has played a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and collaboration on energy-related issues.
Furthermore, both countries are actively engaged in multilateral forums such as the G20 and the United Nations to address global challenges like climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. The focus is shifting towards co-development and co-production in defense, aligning with India's 'Make in India' initiative. Future collaborations are expected in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space technology.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the strategic partnership between India and Germany: 1. The strategic partnership was formalized in 2000, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. 2. Germany was among the first countries to recognize India's independence after World War II. 3. The Indo-German Energy Forum, established in 2006, focuses exclusively on nuclear energy cooperation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Indo-German Energy Forum covers a broader range of energy-related issues, not just nuclear energy.
2. With reference to the recent India-Germany agreement on defence cooperation, which of the following statements is most accurate? A) The agreement primarily focuses on joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean. B) The agreement aims to facilitate technology transfer and co-development in the defence sector. C) The agreement mandates Germany to supply India with nuclear submarines. D) The agreement is solely focused on combating terrorism in the South Asian region.
- A.The agreement primarily focuses on joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean.
- B.The agreement aims to facilitate technology transfer and co-development in the defence sector.
- C.The agreement mandates Germany to supply India with nuclear submarines.
- D.The agreement is solely focused on combating terrorism in the South Asian region.
Show Answer
Answer: B
The agreement aims to strengthen defence ties through technology transfer and co-development, aligning with India's 'Make in India' initiative. The other options are either too specific or inaccurate.
3. Which of the following factors has NOT significantly contributed to the strengthening of Indo-German relations in recent decades? A) Convergence of views on climate change and sustainable development. B) Increased trade and investment flows between the two countries. C) Germany's support for India's permanent membership in the UN Security Council. D) Divergence in geopolitical interests and strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific region.
- A.Convergence of views on climate change and sustainable development.
- B.Increased trade and investment flows between the two countries.
- C.Germany's support for India's permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
- D.Divergence in geopolitical interests and strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Show Answer
Answer: D
Divergence in geopolitical interests would weaken, not strengthen, relations. The other options are all positive factors contributing to stronger ties.