German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Gujarat on Monday as part of his two-day visit to India and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the day.
As part of the visit, the two leaders took part in
the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati riverfront, where they were seen flying a kite depicting Lord Hanuman, drawing attention to the cultural aspect of the programme.
After the festival, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz were scheduled to travel to Mahatma Mandir for formal bilateral talks aimed at strengthening India–Germany ties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz inaugurated the International Kite Festival 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. The leaders also took part in the festival, enjoying the vibrant and colourful celebration.
Visuals from the scene show both leaders interacting with participants.
Before the inauguration, PM Modi, who is also in Gujarat for a three-day visit, welcomed the German Chancellor Merz to Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad.
After the meeting, both leaders paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.
India-Germany Celebrates 75-Years Of Strategic Partnership
The visit is part of Chancellor Merz’s official trip to India, with a focus on deepening cooperation between India and Germany. It comes at a time when the two countries are marking 75 years of diplomatic ties and 25 years of their Strategic Partnership.
Merz is in India from January 12 to January 13, during which he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold formal bilateral talks at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar from 11.15 am onwards.
The discussions are expected to include a review of the progress made under the India–Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently completed 25 years.
