New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday held wide-ranging bilateral discussions with Germany’s Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius, focusing on advancing the strategic defence partnership between India and Germany.
The talks covered key security and defence priorities, with particular emphasis on joint development and manufacturing of defence systems, especially in specialised and emerging technologies. Both sides reiterated the importance of strengthening military-to-military engagement as a core element of their strategic partnership, according to an official statement.
During the meeting, the two countries formalised the Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap and also exchanged an implementing arrangement to collaborate in UN peacekeeping training. Singh described his visit as a reflection of mutual trust, close cooperation, and the growing depth of ties, noting that defence collaboration has gained notable momentum in recent years.
Referring to broader cooperation frameworks, the Indian minister highlighted the significance of the evolving India-European Union security and defence engagement, with both sides agreeing to utilise it for concrete outcomes – ranging from enhanced operational capabilities to promoting regional stability and reinforcing long-term strategic alignment.
Singh also underscored the role of India and Germany in contributing to global economic stability amid ongoing international uncertainties. On terrorism, he stressed the need for a firm and uncompromising stance against the threat in all its forms.
The German minister welcomed the regularisation of staff-level military dialogues and future joint exercises. India has also invited the German Air Force to participate in the upcoming edition of Ex-Tarang Shakti, scheduled to be held later this year.
Earlier, Singh was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the German Ministry of Defence. He also paid tribute at the Bundeswehr Memorial, honouring German armed forces personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
India and Germany are marking 25 years of their strategic partnership in 2026, alongside 75 years of diplomatic relations. Beyond defence, bilateral ties span trade, technology, clean energy, education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people engagement, reflecting the wide scope and future potential of the partnership.
