Germany has expressed strong interest in participating in Andhra Pradesh’s metro rail projects and expanding cooperation with the state across infrastructure, skills, and sustainable development. During his recent visit to Vijayawada, German Ambassador to India Dr. Philipp Ackermann said his country is open to negotiations and eager to explore new areas of collaboration with Andhra Pradesh, one of India’s most dynamic and industrially promising states.
Germany Open to Metro Rail and Urban Development in AP
Speaking to Indian media during his visit, Dr. Ackermann said that Germany is ready to engage with Andhra Pradesh on potential metro rail projects. He noted that the state’s rapid urban growth presents opportunities for sustainable mobility solutions, and that German companies with expertise in transport and infrastructure could contribute meaningfully if invited by the state government.
The Ambassador described Andhra Pradesh as “one of the powerhouses of India,” praising its progress in recent years. He added that Germany is closely watching the state’s development trajectory, particularly in renewable energy, industrial growth, and urban planning.
Dr. Ackermann also indicated that Germany would be receptive to discussions on sustainable city development in Amaravati and other parts of the state. He said that if Andhra Pradesh proposed collaborative projects in areas such as clean transport or renewable infrastructure, German firms would be ready to participate in feasibility talks.
Skills, Agriculture, and Education Partnerships
Beyond infrastructure, the Ambassador outlined Germany’s willingness to partner with Andhra Pradesh on skill development and agriculture. He said Germany sees strong potential in vocational training for the state’s young workforce and is open to designing collaborative programs focused on technical skills and industrial training.
He also highlighted the success of ongoing Indo-German agricultural initiatives promoting sustainable and natural farming practices in Andhra Pradesh. According to Dr. Ackermann, these efforts have already helped improve efficiency and output for local farmers, and Germany is interested in expanding such cooperation.
The Ambassador pointed out that over 400 Indian and German universities are already linked through academic exchange programs and joint research, and said that these partnerships could further grow with state-level participation from Andhra Pradesh.
AP Minister Pitches State as Global Investment Hub
While the German envoy emphasized partnership potential, Andhra Pradesh’s own leadership has been actively courting global investors. On 17 October 2025, state MSME, NRI & SERP minister Kondapalli Srinivas completed a visit to Germany and Switzerland to attract foreign investment and technology collaboration.
During his meetings with industry representatives, including Fuchs Design AG and the Export-Akademie Baden-Württemberg, the minister invited German firms to set up operations in Andhra Pradesh’s industrial clusters and MSME parks. He proposed joint efforts in areas such as design, manufacturing, exports, and innovation.
Minister Srinivas also introduced a vision to establish a “German Tech Hub” in Visakhapatnam, which would focus on collaboration in fields like artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology. His outreach reflected the state’s larger goal of positioning itself as a global centre for sustainable industrial growth and innovation.
Germany Sees India as a Key Strategic Partner
In a recent interview with Indian media, Ambassador Ackermann described India–Germany relations as “very strong and evolving,” but emphasized that the two nations still have significant untapped potential. He said both governments are working to deepen cooperation in technology, energy, and education, adding that Germany “sees India as a partner of the future.”
Dr. Ackermann also spoke positively about India’s long-term development plan, saying Germany supports India’s vision for 2047 and is committed to contributing to its progress where possible. He further noted that Indian professionals are increasingly finding opportunities in Germany, which benefits both economies by creating stronger people-to-people and knowledge connections.
Toward a New Chapter in Indo-German Collaboration
With Germany signaling interest in Andhra Pradesh’s metro and urban development plans, and the state government proactively reaching out to German industry, both sides appear poised to elevate their partnership from dialogue to delivery.
Andhra Pradesh’s growing industrial base, young workforce, and focus on sustainability make it an attractive partner for German technology and investment. For Berlin, the collaboration offers a gateway to one of India’s most forward-looking states — strengthening not just bilateral trade, but also the broader Indo-German strategic relationship rooted in innovation, clean energy, and shared growth.
