Diplomatic gestures like Germany's visa-free transit for Indians feel like practical bridges building stronger connections—it's a welcome easing of travel hassles. Announced during PM Modi and Chancellor Merz's January 12-13 talks—Merz's first Asia visit—the facility lets Indian passport holders pass through German airports en route elsewhere without separate visa paperwork, streamlining journeys significantly.

The joint statement positioned it as a pillar of people-to-people strategic partnership, supporting Indian students and graduates in the German job market while recognising community contributions to economy, innovation, and culture. Modi thanked Merz for the step and invited leading German universities to establish campuses in India under the National Education Policy framework.

Focus areas included education, skills development, research collaboration, vocational training, cultural exchanges, and youth programmes amid rising Indian student numbers and joint degree initiatives. In my view, this removes bureaucratic friction, encouraging more tourism, business, and academic ties—smart move post-Brexit as Europe courts India's growing influence and soft power.