India and Germany have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on Telecommunications Cooperation during the official visit of German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India from January 12–13, 2026. The agreement was signed by Amit Agrawal, Secretary (Telecom), on behalf of the Government of India, and Philipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India, representing the Government of Germany, the Ministry of Communications said in a statement on Friday, January 16, 2026.
JDI Signed During High-Level India–Germany Engagements
The JDI was one of the key outcomes of the high-level engagements between the Prime Minister of India and the German Federal Chancellor. It was concluded between the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, and the Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation (BMDS), Government of the Federal Republic of Germany.
The declaration reflects the shared commitment of both countries to deepen bilateral cooperation in telecommunications and information and communication technologies (ICTs), building on the strong momentum in India–Germany relations and sustained high-level exchanges.
Under the JDI, both sides will establish a structured framework for cooperation, including regular consultations, annual high-level meetings, and dedicated working groups. The framework will promote multi-stakeholder engagement involving government bodies, industry, academia and research institutions to ensure outcome-oriented collaboration.
Focus on Emerging Technologies and ICT Cooperation
Under the JDI, both sides have agreed to enhance cooperation through the exchange of information and best practices, collaboration in emerging and future technologies, and joint efforts in areas such as policy and regulatory frameworks, manufacturing, and facilitation of ease of doing business in the telecommunications and ICT sectors.
Joint Work Plan and Global Collaboration Planned
Both countries have agreed to jointly develop a work plan outlining specific goals and priority areas of mutual interest. They also expressed their intent to work closely in relevant international fora to advance shared perspectives on telecommunications and digital development.
According to the official release, the signing of the Joint Declaration marks a significant step in advancing India–Germany cooperation in telecommunications and ICTs, supporting the shared objective of inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.
