Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled a significant strategic shift, prioritizing deepened bilateral relations with India over a continued focus on China, marking his first major Asian tour since assuming office. Following a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Merz emphasized Germany’s “fundamental interest” in fostering a closer partnership, positioning India as a “desired partner” within a broader effort to diversify Germany’s international alliances.
The move represents a conscious recalibration of German foreign policy, acknowledging the enduring importance of European and transatlantic ties while simultaneously recognizing the imperative to cultivate new and robust partnerships on a global scale. Merz explicitly stated the need for “a further, a larger network of partnerships – and quickly, with a long view” suggesting a deliberate acceleration of engagement alongside a long-term strategic commitment.
Areas of intensified cooperation, as highlighted by the Chancellor, include defense policy, expansion of civil economic relations and collaboration in crucial sectors such as critical mineral acquisition and artificial intelligence development. This focus carries political weight, particularly given the existing concerns surrounding dependence on Chinese supply chains and technological dominance.
While acknowledging shared values – referencing Germany’s status as the EU’s largest economy and India’s designation as the world’s largest democracy – the emphasis on India highlights a potential divergence from traditional German foreign policy approaches. The decision to initiate his Asian tour in India, rather than China, carries a strong symbolic message, underscoring the growing importance placed on India as a geopolitical and economic partner. Critics, however, may question whether this represents a necessary diversification or a risk in potentially antagonizing a powerful economic and political force like China and whether the stated “shared values” truly mask underlying differences regarding democratic processes and human rights within India. The extent to which Germany can navigate these complexities while deepening its partnership with India remains a critical question for the future.
