Indian Diaspora Living Bridge Between Both Sides: Rajnath Singh On First Germany Visit; $8 Bn Submarine Deal Soon?
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described his visit as a symbol of "deep friendship, synergy and trust". Image courtesy: RNA
India and Germany are marking 75 years of the diplomatic relations and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s ongoing three-day visit to the country has marked a significant step forward in bilateral ties, combining high-level defence engagements, strategic agreements, and a renewed push towards deeper industrial and military cooperation, including a closely watched submarine deal expected to be finalised soon.
From Berlin to key defence facilities, Singh’s engagements reflected what he described as a relationship built on “deep friendship, synergy and trust.” Calling it his first-ever visit to Germany, the defence minister underscored its importance at a time when bilateral ties are completing 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.
“I am here on the invitation of the Defence Minister… I believe that this is an achievement in itself; the relations between India and Germany have gradually become stronger with time,” he said. He also highlighted Germany’s global standing, saying, “Germany commands a distinct prestige and credibility within the international community,” adding that ties between the two nations are “completely based on democratic values.”
Rajnath Singh Germany visit: What key defence agreements were signed?
A major outcome of the visit was the signing and exchange of the Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap and an Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Training. The agreements, signed in the presence of Singh and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius, are expected to:
Strengthen institutional collaboration
Expand joint training and capacity building
Boost co-development and co-production of defence equipment
During bilateral talks, India and Germany reviewed a broad spectrum of security and defence cooperation, with a special focus on niche and emerging technologies. “Exchanged views on a wide range of issues including deepening our defence cooperation and tackling emerging geopolitical challenges,” Singh said in a post on X.
Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing military-to-military engagement, seen as a key pillar of the strategic partnership.
Is the $8 billion India-Germany submarine deal nearing finalisation?
One of the most closely watched developments during the visit is the proposed $8 billion submarine deal, spearheaded by Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and India’s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius expressed strong confidence in the project, stating:
“I am very, very confident that I will be able to sign it soon,” adding that he expects the agreement to be finalised within the next three months.
As part of his ongoing visit, defence minister Singh also toured the TKMS shipyard and boarded a Type 212 class submarine, where he was briefed on its capabilities.
Rajnath Singh’s outreach to Indian diaspora
At an event hosted by the Indian Embassy in Berlin, Singh engaged warmly with the Indian community, blending candid remarks with strategic messaging.
“This marks my very first visit to Germany. I have visited the United States 7-8 times… In fact, since Trump assumed the presidency, I have visited the US twice,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience before adding, “I fail to understand the reason behind your laughter; as for me, I am simply smiling at the pleasure of seeing all of you here.”
He acknowledged the Indian diaspora’s role in Germany’s growth, stating, “While the native inhabitants of Germany have undoubtedly made significant contributions… the Indian diaspora has also contributed to it. This reality is something that no one can deny.” Calling them a vital bridge, he added, “The relations between the two countries are determined by people-to-people exchanges… your role in building this bridge is very important.”
How are India-Germany ties evolving beyond defence?
Beyond defence, Singh highlighted the depth of economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
“Today, Germany has become the largest trading partner of India in Europe. More than 2,000 German companies are active in India,” he noted, adding that German firms are contributing to India’s industrial growth and Make in India initiative, while Indian companies are also expanding in Germany.
Singh also emphasised shared cultural links, recalling his visit to Humboldt University, where he paid tribute at the statue of Rabindranath Tagore. “India and Germany not only share political and strategic relations, but also share their art and culture with great enthusiasm,” he noted.
