World today needs Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings more than ever: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

Ahmedabad: Mahatma Gandhi's legacy unites Indians and Germans as friends and his teachings are more needed today than ever, said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, anchoring the Indo-German relationship in shared values on his maiden visit to India on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Merz visited the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad in the morning and paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi.In a note in the ashram visitors' book, Merz wrote, "Mahatma Gandhi's unshakeable belief in the power of freedom and dignity of each and every individual inspires us to this day. This human legacy unites Indians and Germans as friends in a world that may more than ever be in need of Gandhi's teachings."Upon his arrival at the ashram, Merz was welcomed by PM Modi. After paying floral tributes at the statue of the Father of the Nation, both leaders visited ‘Hriday Kunj', a room inside the ashram where Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba lived during India's freedom struggle.At the ashram, Merz also witnessed how khadi yarn is woven using the ‘charkha', or spinning wheel. Mahatma Gandhi spun yarn on the charkha as part of his campaign to promote khadi and self-reliance during India's struggle for independence.Later, in a post on X, PM Modi recalled the enduring global influence of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals. "Sabarmati Ashram stands as a powerful reminder of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals which have given strength to countless people around the world. In Ahmedabad this morning, went to Sabarmati Ashram with the Chancellor of Germany, Mr. Friedrich Merz (sic)," the post read.After paying tributes at the historic ashram, both leaders reached Sabarmati Riverfront, where PM Modi inaugurated the International Kite Festival and later enjoyed kite-flying with Chancellor Merz.