Describing India-Germany relations as being at an “all-time high”, Dr. Philipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India and Bhutan, has said the two countries are witnessing unprecedented cooperation across trade, renewable energy, strategic engagement and people-to-people ties, while expressing confidence that the long-awaited India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could be signed by the end of 2026.
In an interview with ANI, Ambassador Ackermann said bilateral relations have continued to deepen across multiple sectors and pointed to renewable energy, investment, defence cooperation and mobility as some of the strongest pillars of the partnership.
“I’m very happy to say that every year we get stronger and closer relations,” the ambassador said.
Renewable Energy Partnership Delivers Results
Highlighting the success of the Indo-German Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development (GSDP), Ambassador Ackermann said India’s rapid rise as a renewable energy powerhouse demonstrates the strength of bilateral cooperation.
He noted that Germany had contributed to India’s clean energy transition while acknowledging that Indian innovation is now influencing global practices.
“India is now one of the most impressive producers of renewable energy, and I am proud to say Germany has played a part in this development. We are now even learning from India, particularly from the advancements in your private sector,” he said.
India and Germany have significantly expanded cooperation on climate action, clean energy, green hydrogen, sustainable infrastructure and energy transition under the GSDP framework in recent years.
India-EU FTA Will Be a ‘Huge Game Changer’
Speaking about the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement, Ambassador Ackermann said the agreement would substantially strengthen economic ties and encourage greater German investment in India.
He described the FTA as a major opportunity for German businesses operating in the Indian market. “We hope to see it signed by the end of this year,” Ambassador Ackermann said.
He further expressed optimism that implementation could begin soon thereafter.
“Unlike other FTAs, this one is much less controversial in the European Parliament. I am an optimist, and I believe that by the end of the Indian fiscal year, we should be ready to implement it.”
The remarks come as India and the European Union continue preparations for signing the agreement following the conclusion of negotiations earlier this year, with both sides targeting implementation during the next financial year.
Defence Cooperation Entering a ‘New Chapter’
The German Ambassador also highlighted growing defence cooperation between New Delhi and Berlin, describing the sector as an increasingly important pillar of bilateral relations.
While noting that defence cooperation had traditionally progressed at a measured pace, he said the relationship is now entering a new phase of expansion.
“Defense will be a new chapter, which will be larger than in the past years,” he stated.
Ambassador Ackermann added that Germany remains optimistic about ongoing discussions related to submarine cooperation with India, describing the engagement as a positive development in the strategic partnership.
Indian Students and Skilled Professionals Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Emphasising the human dimension of the relationship, Ambassador Ackermann said the rapidly growing Indian community in Germany is playing an increasingly important role in bringing the two societies closer.
Referring to his recent visit to the newly inaugurated Hindu temple in Berlin, he said the Indian diaspora continues to make valuable contributions across multiple sectors.
“We have seen very good results in skilled labor migration, particularly in nursing, caregiving, and engineering,” Ambassador Ackermann said.
He added that Indian students have integrated successfully into German society.
“With 60,000 Indian students in Germany, we see that they are very satisfied and content. As the diaspora grows, people-to-people ties will inevitably become closer because Indians are outgoing and quickly establish relationships with their German neighbours.”
Germany has witnessed steady growth in the number of Indian students, researchers and skilled professionals in recent years, making India one of the country’s fastest-growing international talent pools.
Ambassador Cheers German Football Team
On a lighter note, Ambassador Ackermann also shared his enthusiasm for Germany’s campaign in the ongoing international football championship.
“I keep my fingers crossed for the German team,” he said.
Despite acknowledging the team’s recent defeat against Ecuador, he praised the tournament. “It is a tough tournament, and with 48 teams, it is quite a massive event. The timing in India makes it difficult to watch, but it is a good championship so far.”
The Ambassador’s remarks come at a time when India and Germany are marking 75 years of diplomatic relations, with both countries expanding cooperation across trade, green technologies, defence, innovation, education, mobility and sustainable development, reflecting the growing strategic depth of the bilateral partnership.
