German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann recently engaged with the Indian media, including The Times of India and The Tribune, on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. In his interactions, he outlined Germany’s strategic focus on strengthening ties with India across defense, trade, skilled workforce recruitment, and green technologies. Ackermann emphasized that Berlin sees India as a key partner in navigating global challenges and ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships in Indo-Pacific and Beyond
Germany is looking to expand its collaboration with India across key sectors, including defense manufacturing, skilled workforce recruitment, trade, and green energy. Ackermann highlighted Germany’s intent to enhance its military presence and work alongside India in the Indo-Pacific. “Germany and India share common goals in ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific, which remains vital for global trade and security,” he stated. The German government, he added, has framed its Indo-Pacific strategy to bolster cooperation with regional allies, particularly India.
Demand for Indian Skilled Workers on the Rise
Germany is actively seeking skilled professionals from India, particularly in the IT sector, healthcare, and skilled trades. Addressing reports that Germany might recruit 90,000 Indian workers, Ackermann clarified that there was no fixed ceiling on hiring. “We are looking for IT engineers, caregivers, nurses, and even apprentices in craft industries. The Indian diaspora in Germany is already thriving and earning above the national average,” he said.
The German government has been working on streamlining migration policies to facilitate legal movement of Indian talent. This aligns with Germany’s broader strategy to address labor shortages while strengthening economic ties with India.
Continuity in Germany’s India Policy Amid Political Changes
Despite an impending change in the German government, Ackermann assured that the country’s focus on India would remain a priority. “Regardless of who leads the foreign ministry, the new German Chancellor will continue to emphasize India as a key partner,” he remarked. The ‘Focus on India’ strategy, introduced in 2024, is expected to persist, reflecting Germany’s long-term vision for bilateral cooperation.
Green Energy Collaboration Gains Momentum
Germany has been a strong proponent of green energy and sustainability, with approximately 60% of its electricity now sourced from renewables. Ackermann underscored the importance of Indo-German collaboration in this domain. “Green and sustainable development is at the heart of our partnership with India,” he noted. The two nations have been working closely on hydrogen energy and other renewable initiatives.
German Companies Expanding R&D Presence in India
Nearly 2,000 German companies currently operate in India, with many using the country as a hub for research and development. Ackermann pointed out that several German firms, including SAP and Mercedes-Benz, have extensive R&D operations in India. “SAP employs more engineers in India than in Germany, and Mercedes-Benz has 8,000 engineers in India working on the future of mobility,” he said.
Germany is also keenly watching the progress of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which, if finalized, could significantly boost economic engagement. “We hope to conclude the FTA by the end of the year, as it would be a game changer for many industries and attract more investment into India,” Ackermann stated. He added that political momentum for the deal had grown following recent high-level EU visits to India.
Strong German Backing for Defense Collaboration
Germany has expressed strong governmental support for its defense firms, particularly ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), which is competing for a contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) to produce advanced submarines for India. “The German government fully supports TKMS’s bid and has assured India of its commitment to facilitating this deal. The decision now rests with India,” Ackermann affirmed.
Increasing German Military Presence in Indo-Pacific
Highlighting Germany’s Indo-Pacific strategy, Ackermann emphasized Berlin’s plan to increase its military footprint in the region. “You will see more of Germany in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in collaboration with partners like India. The region is crucial for international trade, and we intend to be more visible,” he stated. Last year, Germany participated in the Tarang Shakti air exercise with India, reflecting the growing defense ties between the two nations.
Strengthening Space Cooperation
Germany and India are also looking to enhance their partnership in space exploration. Ackermann revealed that both countries were in discussions about collaborative space missions in the near future. This aligns with India’s growing prominence in global space endeavors and Germany’s interest in deepening technological cooperation.
