German Chancellor Merkel given ceremonial welcome

New Delhi: German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan here, ahead of her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted: "Íts a Guten Morgen in Delhi as Chancellor Angela Merkel receives a ceremonial welcome at the @RashtrapatiBhvn."

"Prime Minister Modi has outlined an ambitious programme for the development of this nation and Germany fully intends to be a partner and support it," a statement from Merkel's delegation said during her ceremonial welcome.

Earlier, Modi tweeted: "Namaste Chancellor Merkel! Warm welcome to you and the delegation. I look forward to fruitful discussions and strengthening India - Germany ties."