India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) regarding Telecommunications Cooperation, establishing a foundation for enhanced collaboration in developing digital technologies, policy frameworks, and manufacturing within the telecom and information and communication technology (ICT) sectors.

The accord was a significant result of discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his official trip to India from January 12 to 13, according to reports.

The JDI was endorsed by Telecom Secretary Amit Agrawal representing India and German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann representing the Federal Republic of Germany. It was determined between the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernization.

As per the Centre, the statement signifies a mutual desire to enhance bilateral collaboration in telecommunications and ICTs, capitalizing on what it termed as the “robust momentum in India-Germany ties and ongoing high-level interactions.”

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As part of the agreement, both parties have committed to enhancing cooperation via ongoing information sharing and best practices, fostering collaboration in new and future technologies, and engaging in joint initiatives in areas like “policy and regulatory frameworks, manufacturing, and easing business operations in the telecommunications and ICT sectors.”

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The statement creates a structure for ongoing discussions and yearly high-level meetings, backed by specific working groups and collaborative involvement from government, industry, academia, and research entities. The statement indicated that these mechanisms aim to facilitate “organized, result-driven collaboration.”

Both countries have also expressed their intention to jointly develop a work plan outlining specific goals and areas of mutual interest, ensuring alignment with national priorities.

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In addition, India and Germany said they would “work together closely in international fora to promote common understanding” and advance shared perspectives on telecommunications and digital development.