Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 16: India and Germany have taken a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties by signing a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on cooperation in the telecommunications sector, reflecting a shared commitment to deepen collaboration in telecommunications and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
The Ministry of Communications said the JDI builds on the strong momentum in India-Germany relations and sustained high-level engagements between the two countries. The declaration was signed as one of the key outcomes of discussions between the Prime Minister of India and the Federal Chancellor of Germany.
The agreement aims to promote joint efforts in areas such as policy and regulatory frameworks, manufacturing, and facilitation of ease of doing business in the telecommunications and ICT sectors. It also establishes a structured mechanism for regular consultations, including high-level annual meetings supported by dedicated working groups and multi-stakeholder engagement involving government, industry, academia and research institutions.
“The JDI establishes a framework for regular consultations and outcome-oriented cooperation,” the ministry noted, adding that both sides have expressed their intention to jointly develop a work plan outlining specific goals and areas of mutual interest aligned with the priorities of both countries.
India and Germany have also agreed to work closely in relevant international fora to promote mutual understanding and advance shared perspectives on telecommunications and digital development. The declaration is seen as an important step towards supporting inclusive and sustainable digital transformation in both nations.
The signing follows German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s first official visit to India earlier this week and has been described as a key outcome of the bilateral engagements. A joint statement issued after the talks noted that the leaders had also finalised the Work Plan for the Indo-German Digital Dialogue for 2026-27, emphasising cooperation in areas such as internet and data governance, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, Industry 4.0 and other emerging technologies.
The leaders acknowledged that the JDI on telecommunications cooperation would further strengthen the digital partnership between India and Germany.