India-Germany Declaration on Telecommunications Cooperation

In January 2026, India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on Telecommunications Cooperation, marking a significant step towards deepening bilateral collaboration in the telecom and information and communication technologies (ICT) sectors.

The JDI was signed during the official visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India from January 12 to 13, reflecting growing strategic convergence between the two countries following engagements with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key Points:

Objective of the Declaration: The agreement aims to create a structured framework for cooperation in telecommunications and emerging digital technologies, building on sustained high-level engagements between India and Germany.
Mechanisms for Cooperation: The JDI provides for regular consultations, annual high-level meetings, and the establishment of dedicated working groups with participation from government, industry, academia, and research institutions.
Areas of Collaboration: Both sides committed to cooperation through exchange of information and best practices, collaboration in emerging and future technologies, policy and regulatory frameworks, telecom manufacturing, and improving ease of doing business in the telecom and ICT sectors.
Work Plan and Global Engagement: India and Germany will jointly develop a detailed work plan outlining specific goals and priority areas, aligned with national digital strategies, and will coordinate in relevant international fora to advance shared perspectives on telecom and digital development.