India and Germany Agree on Gratis Visas to Boost Student Exchanges
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India and Germany have agreed to introduce gratis visas for short-term school and college visits, a move aimed at deepening education ties and promoting student exchange programmes between the two nations.
The announcement came during the visit of German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul to India, where he held delegation-level talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress of their “multifaceted Strategic Partnership”, which covers trade, defence, technology, science, green development, and people-to-people ties.
The MEA statement highlighted that the gratis visa initiative would further strengthen cooperation in education and foster closer links between Indian and German students. The two sides also agreed to establish a new bilateral consultation mechanism on the Indo-Pacific, reflecting shared interests in regional stability and security.
In addition to education, discussions covered pressing international issues including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions in the Middle East. India also expressed appreciation for Germany’s continued solidarity and strong support in its fight against terrorism.
Wadephul’s visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. During his trip, he also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, accompanied by a high-level business delegation. The discussions reflected the rapidly expanding economic partnership between the two countries.
The German minister began his India visit in Bengaluru, where he interacted with German firms, innovation hubs, and research institutions, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). The engagements underlined opportunities for collaboration in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, space exploration, green technology, and sustainable urban development.
The announcement of gratis visas for student exchanges marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, underscoring the shared commitment of India and Germany to strengthening educational and cultural ties while advancing strategic and economic collaboration.
Source: ECONOMIC TIMES
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