India and Germany have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on Telecommunications Cooperation during the visit of the German Chancellor to India.
The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in telecommunications, digital technologies and Information & Communication Technology (ICT) sectors, reflecting the growing strategic depth of India–Germany relations.
What is Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI)?
- The JDI establishes a structured and institutional framework for cooperation in:
- Telecommunications
- Information & Communication Technologies (ICTs)
- It supports the shared objective of inclusive, secure and sustainable digital transformation.
- It builds on sustained high-level engagements and the expanding technology partnership between India and Germany.
Key Features of Joint Declaration
- Creates a formal mechanism for bilateral cooperation in telecom and ICT
- Emphasises:
- Collaboration in emerging and future digital technologies
- Exchange of best practices on policy and regulatory frameworks
- Promotion of manufacturing and ease of doing business
- Innovation through engagement of government, industry, academia and research institutions
- Provides for:
- Regular consultations
- Annual high-level meetings
- Dedicated working groups
- A joint work plan to align shared priorities
Indo-German Digital Dialogue Work Plan (2026–27)
- A concrete outcome of the JDI is the finalisation of the
Indo-German Digital Dialogue Work Plan (2026–27) - Key cooperation areas under the Work Plan:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Data governance
- Telecommunications
- Industry 4.0
This work plan gives operational clarity and timelines to the broader intent of the JDI.
Areas of Collaboration
Under the Declaration, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation through:
- Regular exchange of information and best practices
- Joint efforts in:
- Telecom and ICT policy and regulation
- Manufacturing ecosystems
- Ease of doing business
- Collaboration in emerging and future technologies, ensuring long-term digital competitiveness.
International and Multilateral Cooperation
- India and Germany will:
- Coordinate in relevant international fora
- Promote common understanding on telecom governance and digital development
- This coordination aims to:
- Strengthen multilateral cooperation
- Support inclusive and sustainable digital transformation globally
- Advance shared perspectives on global digital norms and standards.
Significance of Agreement
- Strengthens India–Germany digital and technology partnership
- Aligns with India’s goals of:
- Digital India
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (manufacturing and innovation)
- Reinforces Germany’s focus on:
- Secure digital infrastructure
- Responsible use of emerging technologies
- Enhances cooperation in AI, Industry 4.0 and telecom governance, critical for future economic growth.