The Key Highlights of the Visit
Several pacts were signed during the visit covering diverse arenas such as space, civil aviation, maritime technology, medicine, education, agriculture, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). In defence, India extended an invitation to Germany to explore opportunities in the emerging defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Both countries concurred on working together at bilateral as well as multilateral levels to combat terrorism and extremism.
Stance on Global Challenges
A consensus was reached to cooperate in speeding up reforms in the United Nations (UN) Security Council. The need to restore functionality of the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) dispute settlement system and overhaul the organisation without undermining its basic principles, was emphasised. Furthermore, both parties agreed to financially support climate initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with Germany committing to provide $1.1 billion to India for green urban mobility.
Economic and Scientific Collaboration
The visit saw discussions aiming to reinitiate negotiations between the European Union (EU) and India on the Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA). There were also deliberations on joint research in the development and use of AI and identification of sound approaches towards cyber security.
| Key Facts |
|---|
| Germany and India have a ‘Strategic Partnership’ since 2001. |
| Germany is India’s largest trading partner in Europe. |
| Both countries are members of G-4 along with Brazil and Japan, supporting each other’s bids for permanent seats on the UN Security Council. |
| India and Germany are also members of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). |
The Significance of India – Germany Relations
Continued partnerships and frequent dialogues such as IGCs signify the growth and importance of Indo-German relations. With shared interests in multiple sectors, cooperative research and development, and mutual support at international forums, the bond between the two nations continues to fortify.