India and Germany have agreed to provide gratis visas for short-term school and college visits, aiming to boost student exchanges and strengthen educational ties between the two nations. This announcement coincides with discussions on trade, investment, defense, technology, and regional issues during the visit of German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, to India.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that both nations also plan to establish a new bilateral consultation mechanism focused on the Indo-Pacific region. The discussions reviewed the comprehensive Strategic Partnership, highlighting progress in trade and investment, defense and security, technology, science and innovation, green and sustainable development, education, and people-to-people connections.

“EAM and Foreign Minister Wadephul reviewed the entire gamut of our multifaceted Strategic Partnership and expressed satisfaction at the progress in diverse sectors…The two sides agreed on gratis visas for short-term school and college visits between our countries to further promote student exchanges and education ties,” the MEA stated.

The discussions also covered regional and global concerns, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and developments in the Middle East. India expressed appreciation for Germany’s solidarity and support in combating terrorism.

During his visit, Wadephul met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, alongside a high-level German business delegation. The delegation’s Bengaluru visit included engagements with German companies, innovation hubs, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Discussions emphasized collaboration in green technology, digital transformation, AI, space cooperation, and sustainable urban development.

This engagement also marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, reflecting decades of mutual trust, shared democratic values, and commitment to global stability and sustainable development.