Jaishankar Conveys Modi's Greetings to German Chancellor Scholz, Bolsters Bilateral Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, delivering Prime Minister Narendra Modi's personal greetings. Jaishankar is on the second leg of a three-nation tour, having arrived from Saudi Arabia after attending the first India-Gulf Cooperation Council Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue.

Jaishankar expressed his honour in meeting Chancellor Scholz and conveyed Modi's greetings. "Honoured to meet Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin today. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM Modi. Look forward to his visit to India for the 7th Intergovernmental Consultations," he posted on X.

Strategic Discussions and Defence Ties

In Berlin, Jaishankar had an in-depth exchange with Jens Plotner, Security and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Federal Chancellor. Their conversation focused on preparations for the Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) and significant strategic developments. Jaishankar shared this update on X.

The minister also met German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, discussing security issues and appreciating progress in India-Germany defence ties. "Had a fruitful meeting with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and exchanged views on security issues and appreciate the progress in India-Germany defence ties," Jaishankar posted on X.

Engagements with Political Leaders

Jaishankar met Friedrich Merz, Chairman of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, along with members of the CDU-CSU parliamentary group. They discussed bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues. "A great pleasure to meet @_FriedrichMerz, Chairman @CDU and members of the CDU - CSU parliamentary group. A comprehensive discussion on our bilateral relationship as well as regional and global issues. Appreciated his many insights and suggestions to strengthen our strategic partnership," Jaishankar said.

On Tuesday, Jaishankar met Michael Roth, chairman of the German Parliament's committee on foreign affairs. They discussed current global challenges and potential new collaborations between India and Germany. "Glad to meet Mr Michael Roth, MP and Chairman of the @Bundestag Committee on Foreign Affairs. Shared views on current global challenges, and possibilities of new collaborations between India and Germany," Jaishankar posted on X.

Cultural Visits and Expert Conversations

Jaishankar visited the Humboldt Forum, a museum dedicated to human history, art, and culture. He shared photographs of his visit on X, highlighting a replica of the East Gate of the Sanchi Stupa outside the museum. "The replica of the East Gate of the Sanchi Stupa stands outside the Humboldt Forum. A representation of India's rich heritage in the heart of Berlin!" he posted.

He also engaged in a lively conversation with foreign affairs and security policy experts organised by the Munich Security Conference in Berlin. They exchanged perspectives on the changing global order, multipolarity, security challenges, and strategic convergences between India and Germany.

Parliamentary Interactions

Jaishankar interacted with members of the German parliament known as the Bundestag. He appreciated their insights on contemporary global issues and valued their support for stronger India-Germany relations.

Earlier, Jaishankar held wide-ranging discussions with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock. They reviewed the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, covering areas such as trade, defence, and security.

On the final leg of his trip, Jaishankar will visit Geneva.