India and Germany are strengthening their ties, particularly in the realm of defence and security, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced during his visit to Berlin. Jaishankar underscored the growing collaboration between the two nations, noting that their interactions in defence and security have intensified. This year saw the first-ever air exercises between India and Germany, and next month, Goa is set to welcome German naval ships. He emphasized that the mutual benefits of these interactions extend to various policy exchanges, and highlighted the desire to explore closer cooperation between the two countries’ defence industries.
During a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Jaishankar elaborated on the details of their meeting, revealing discussions about Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Ukraine and the situation in West Asia/Middle East, particularly the Gaza conflict and its repercussions. He also expressed India’s desire to accelerate the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and other agreements with the incoming European Union Commission, seeking Germany’s support in this endeavour. He also indicated India’s eagerness to convene an early meeting of the Trade and Technology Council.
Addressing the Annual Ambassadors’ Conference of the German Foreign Office, Jaishankar urged Germany to update its export control regime, aiming to facilitate greater defence cooperation with India. He also advocated for increased bilateral trade and investment, highlighting India’s burgeoning economy. As a nearly $4 trillion economy projected to grow at an impressive 8% for decades, India presents a compelling opportunity for German businesses.
Jaishankar’s visit to Germany, the second leg of a three-nation tour, encompassed a call for enhanced cooperation in innovation and technology, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence, fintech, and green technologies. He stressed the importance of close consultation between the two nations on global issues to bolster trust and confidence in their partnership.
Jaishankar emphasized that India is aiming to cultivate a stronger relationship with Germany and, in this context, believes that Germany should take a more active interest in the Indo-Pacific region, mirroring India’s engagement in the Euro-Atlantic.
Jaishankar’s trip to Germany followed his participation in the first meeting between foreign ministers of India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. After concluding his engagements in Germany, he will travel to Switzerland.
