Rajnath Singh, during his address to German parliamentarians in Berlin, emphasized that “Aatmanirbhar Bharat is not merely a procurement programme, it is an invitation to co-create, co-develop, and co-innovate.” Singh’s remarks came upon his arrival in Germany, where he was received with military honors at the Berlin airport. He was transported on a special German Air Force aircraft, accompanied by fighter jets, after arriving from Munich.
Singh’s three-day visit includes discussions with his German counterpart, Boris Pistorius, and other senior officials. In his address to the German parliamentary standing committee, he made a compelling case for enhanced collaboration between the defense industrial sectors of India and Germany. He noted that “the world today is faced with new security threats,” highlighting the complexity arising from rapid technological transformations. He called for a new approach, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a changing environment.
The Indian defense sector, according to Singh, is undergoing significant transformation, and he asserted that increased partnerships with German industries could lead to substantial mutual benefits. He acknowledged Germany’s established industrial strengths while appreciating the dynamism of the German Mittelstand, which comprises small and medium-sized enterprises excelling in advanced technologies. Singh pointed out that Indian startups and private firms are also augmenting the capabilities of larger defense enterprises, indicating a natural alignment for deeper collaboration between the two nations.
To tackle contemporary global challenges, Singh stressed the necessity for coordinated responses and trusted strategic partnerships. He noted that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have prioritized advancing their strategic partnership. He mentioned a growing alignment of views at the EU level, particularly in the context of the India–EU Defence and Strategic Partnership.
Singh underlined that India and Germany are not only strategic partners but also influential voices capable of shaping contemporary global discourse. He described both nations as established democracies with shared values and robust economies powered by resilience, innovation, and industrious spirit. He appealed to the German lawmakers to lend their guidance and support to strengthen the future of defense and strategic cooperation between India and Germany.
Furthermore, Singh remarked that the current geopolitical instability should not be viewed merely as regional issues, asserting that their repercussions have global implications, affecting energy security, food security, and overall economic stability, along with substantial humanitarian costs.
