German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he wants closer security cooperation with India to reduce dependence on Russia, speaking alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first official visit to the country. The two leaders announced agreements on critical minerals, healthcare, and an artificial intelligence innovation center, and called for progress on a long-stalled EU–India free trade deal. Merz warned of rising global protectionism, while Modi said the partnership would help build resilient and secure supply chains. India remains a major buyer of Russian energy and military equipment.