External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Germany has been important in deepening the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. His meetings in Berlin with German leaders have focused on expanding collaboration across various sectors and addressing global challenges. This visit marks Jaishankar’s 2nd trip to Germany within the year, having previously attended the Munich Security Conference.

CONTEXT OF THE VISIT

  • Indian Elections: Jaishankar highlighted that India has recently completed its general elections, resulting in a government receiving its third successive mandate. This continuity allows the Indian government to undertake new initiatives effectively.
  • 100-Day Agenda: As part of Prime Minister Modi's directive, Jaishankar is focusing on meeting key international partners, with Germany being a priority.

KEY POINTS IN REMARKS MADE BY MR. JAISHANKAR

On September 10, 2024, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar addressed the media following his discussions with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
  • Economic and Technological Advancements in India:
    • Economic Growth: India is now a nearly $4 trillion economy with an 8% growth rate forecasted for the coming decades.
    • Infrastructure Development: Rapid infrastructure expansion with new airports, metro systems, highways, and railways.
    • Digital Transformation: India leads in digital financial transactions (UPI), with significant advancements in housing, health coverage, and small business
    • Startup Ecosystem: Home to the 3rd-largest startup ecosystem and 117 unicorns.
  • India’s Global Relevance:
    • Technological Prowess: Achievements in space exploration, vaccine production, and semiconductor industry.
    • Future Initiatives: Plans for new industrial zones, skills development, logistics improvements, and aviation expansion.
  • Importance of Foreign Policy:
    • Global Cooperation: Emphasizes the need for collaboration in green energy, sustainable urbanization, and emerging technologies like AI and green hydrogen.
    • Supply Chains and Security: Stresses the importance of reliable supply chains and trusted digital partnerships for global stability.
  • Global Context:
  • Shifting World Order: The global landscape is transitioning from post-1945 arrangements towards a more multipolar world.
  • European Union and Germany’s Role: Germany’s strategic awareness and role in the evolving global scenario are of significant interest to India.
  • Interdependence: Emphasizes the need for partnerships and convergence in a globalized world where instability has widespread effects.
  • Migration and Mobility:
  • Migration Agreement: The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement signed in December 2022 has facilitated smoother movement of skills and talent. There are currently 125,000 Indian nationals working in Germany, and the number of Indian students has reached 50,000.
  • Visa Efficiency: Jaishankar thanked FM Baerbock for efforts to improve the speed and efficiency of visa issuance.

KEY AREAS OF COLLABORATION

  • Trade and Economic Collaboration:
    • Current Status: Trade stands at approximately USD 30 billion annually with substantial investments from both sides. Germany’s investment in India is around USD 25 million.
    • Potential: Jaishankar highlighted significant untapped opportunities for growth, emphasizing the strategic value of deepening economic ties.
    • Upcoming Events: Inter-Governmental Consultations: Upcoming 7th Inter-Governmental Consultations will be crucial for setting future directions. Business Conferences: The 18th Asia Pacific Conference of German Business (APK 2024) in New Delhi will be significant for business ties.
    • Sustainability: The Green and Sustainable Development Partnership aims for environmentally sustainable economic growth, leveraging Germany’s green technology leadership and India’s clean energy potential.
  • Defence and Security Cooperation:
    • Recent Developments: The first-ever joint air exercises were conducted, and there are plans for future naval cooperation, including ship visits to Goa.
    • Future Prospects: Jaishankar and German officials discussed closer cooperation in defence technology and production, underscoring a commitment to a rules-based international order.
  • Technological and Scientific Collaboration:
    • Historical Context: Celebrating 50 years of science and technology cooperation, the partnership has been marked by significant innovation.
    • Opportunities: Collaboration in AI, space technology, and biotechnology is emphasized. An early meeting of the Trade and Technology Council is planned to enhance cooperation.
    • EU FTA: Progress on the Free Trade Agreement with the EU is a critical focus, with Germany’s support being important for acceleration.
  • Strategic Partnership for Global Challenges:
    • Global Contributions: Both nations are active in international forums addressing climate change, cybersecurity, and geopolitical stability.
    • Collaborative Potential: Discussions included potential joint efforts in third countries where shared interests exist, broadening the scope of international cooperation.
  • Green Development: Progress in Green and Sustainable Development Partnership with 38 agreements valued at 3.22 billion Euros.