默茨新年亚洲首访选印度，商业天团追随，或签80亿美元潜艇大单？

Group 1 - German Chancellor Merz's visit to India aims to enhance cooperation in key sectors such as critical minerals, healthcare, and AI innovation [1][3] - A significant submarine manufacturing agreement worth $8 billion is expected to be reached, involving the production of six advanced conventional submarines with air-independent propulsion systems [1][5] - The agreement reflects Germany's strategy to diversify its economic partnerships and reduce reliance on Russia for defense supplies [7] Group 2 - The visit includes a delegation of prominent German business leaders from companies like Siemens, DHL, Infineon, and Airbus, highlighting the importance of strengthening economic ties [3] - Germany is facing a labor shortage, particularly in healthcare, and is looking to India to fill gaps in the workforce, especially in nursing and IT sectors [3][4] - The bilateral trade between Germany and India is approaching $50 billion, with over 2,000 German companies operating in India and more than 700 Indian companies investing in Germany [4] Group 3 - The submarine deal is part of India's broader strategy to diversify its defense procurement, moving away from a heavy reliance on Russian military equipment [7] - The new submarines will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy, which currently operates older Russian submarines and newer French ones [6][7] - The shift in defense partnerships is influenced by geopolitical changes, particularly the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on global security dynamics [7]