Germany and India Sign 27 New Agreements

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz concluded a significant visit to India, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation and economic ties. Scholz and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed 27 new agreements, focusing on renewable energy, defense technology, and clean energy, reflecting their 'transformational partnership.' Germany aims to increase skilled labor visas for Indians from 20,000 to 90,000 annually to address its workforce shortages, highlighting the mutual benefits of increased mobility and cooperation in sectors like IT and healthcare. Both leaders discussed global issues, including the Russia-Ukraine war and China's growing influence, underscoring the importance of freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific. The visit also saw commitments to a free trade agreement between India and the European Union and a permanent German naval presence in the Indian Ocean.