Kananaskis (Canada): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 17, met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada.

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi stated: “Delighted to hold talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada. India and Germany are close friends, connected by shared values. This year, we mark 25 years of our Strategic Partnership. We discussed how to work even more closely in areas like IT, manufacturing, semiconductors, sustainability, research, and innovation.”

In a separate post on X, the Prime Minister wrote: “Chancellor Merz and I also had discussions on deepening defence and security linkages. We will keep working together in areas like counter-terrorism and cracking down on terror financing.”

This marked the first meeting between the two leaders since Chancellor Merz assumed office in May 2025. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a post on X, shared: “India-Germany… Commemorating steadfast 25 years of Strategic Partnership. PM @narendramodi met Chancellor Friedrich Merz @_FriedrichMerz of Germany on the sidelines of #G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. Both leaders discussed ways to strengthen India-Germany bilateral cooperation in key areas of trade & investment, defence & security, green & sustainable development partnership, green energy, technology, innovation, education, and mobility. They also exchanged views on regional & international developments.”

PM Modi expressed gratitude to Chancellor Merz for Germany’s steadfast solidarity and support to India in combating terrorism. The Prime Minister also congratulated Chancellor Merz on his recent parliamentary election victory and assumption of office. Additionally, he conveyed his deep appreciation for the German government’s condolences over the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad last week.

Both leaders acknowledged the positive momentum in the bilateral relationship and reaffirmed their dedication to bolstering cooperation across core sectors including trade and investment, defence and security, sustainable development, clean energy, innovation, education, and mobility.

They agreed to deepen and diversify the India-Germany Strategic Partnership as it marks its 25th anniversary. Both emphasized that terrorism remains a serious threat to global peace and stability. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chancellor Merz’s strong expression of solidarity and continued support for India’s anti-terrorism efforts.

They also shared perspectives on significant regional and global issues. PM Modi concluded the meeting by expressing his eagerness to host Chancellor Merz in India at a mutually convenient time.