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Merz Begins India Visit With German-Indian Submarine Deal Nearing Completion

Berlin seeks to steer New Delhi away from Russian arms through deeper industry links.

Overview

  • Merz starts a two-day trip to India, set to be received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad before meetings in Bengaluru, with a sizable business delegation in tow.
  • ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems is reported to be close to a roughly €7 billion contract for six U214-class submarines with air-independent propulsion, partially built in India, though no agreement has been signed.
  • German and Indian defense ministries plan a Defense Road Map and a joint working group to structure longer-term industrial cooperation.
  • Energy ties feature in the visit, with reports that Uniper will sign an agreement to purchase green ammonia from India.
  • Human-rights organizations urge Merz to press concerns over protections for religious minorities during talks with Indian leaders.