Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled a significant strategic reorientation, prioritizing deepened bilateral relations with India over traditional ties with China. Following a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Merz emphasized Germany’s “fundamental interest” in fostering a robust partnership with India, marking his inaugural major Asian tour as Chancellor.
Merz articulated a clear shift in German foreign policy, acknowledging the continued importance of European and transatlantic relationships while stressing the imperative of rapidly expanding a network of global partnerships. He identified India as a “desired partner” highlighting potential collaborations across a spectrum of sectors, including defense policy, civil economic development and critical areas like securing vital mineral resources and advancing artificial intelligence capabilities.
The Chancellor’s visit is being interpreted as a deliberate political statement, underscoring a move away from Beijing as Germany seeks to diversify its international alliances and mitigate geopolitical risks. The timing and prominence of this Indian visit, occurring before a comparable engagement with China, suggest a calculated effort to demonstrate a renewed commitment to New Delhi.
However, the deepening relationship isn’t without complexities. While Merz lauded the shared values between Germany and India, the partnership must navigate the reality of India’s democratic backsliding under Modi’s leadership, including concerns regarding press freedom, minority rights and the erosion of judicial independence. Germany’s eagerness for a strategic alliance will necessitate a delicate balancing act, requiring a critical assessment of human rights considerations alongside economic and security imperatives.
Analysts suggest the push for closer ties is also motivated by Germany’s desire to secure supply chains and reduce dependence on China, particularly concerning critical raw materials vital for the green energy transition. While Berlin frames this as a mutually beneficial partnership, the initiative raises questions about the long-term implications for Europe’s relationship with China and the potential for escalating geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific region. The success of this strategic pivot hinges on Germany’s willingness to address India’s governance challenges and ensure the partnership aligns with democratic principles.