Serving in this role since 2021, Mr. Friedrich Birgelen, the Deputy Consul General for Germany in Bangalore, has been at the forefront of fostering Indo-German cooperation in various fields, including green initiatives, sustainable cities, and hydrogen diplomacy. With a diverse background that spans corporate law, migration management, and human resources, he brings a unique perspective to his diplomatic duties. He has been of invaluable support to the German and Indian community in Karnataka and Kerala. Leading the topics of Science and Technology, his contributions to foster Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation between India and Germany have been widely appreciated. As he leaves for his next posting in Berlin, In this exclusive interview with TheDialog, Mr. Birgelen shares his experiences, insights, and the memorable moments that have defined his tenure in Bangalore.
Can you share your experience serving as the Deputy Consul General for Germany in Bangalore, highlighting any particularly memorable moments or experiences that stand out to you?
What stands out most about India, and especially Bangalore, to me are the people. I found Indians to have an inherent kindness and openness towards myself, a foreigner. For example, the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce had organized a football tournament for German companies. We also fielded teams from the German consulate and I was fortunate enough to play, recovering in time after I had been out with a knee injury for several months. I let some friends from my regular football group know that I was attempting a comeback and would join them on the field very soon. Without telling me or being prompted, they showed up at the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce football tournament to support me in my comeback, even though they weren’t playing that day – on a free Saturday! To me that was an incredible act of kindness.
How did your previous roles as a corporate lawyer at Shell and your work handling migration matters in West Africa influence your approach to your responsibilities as Deputy Consul General in Bangalore? In what ways has your experience in India differed from your previous postings in Nigeria and Germany?
I think my previous work experiences have helped me to adapt to Bangalore and Southern India quickly. I believe you become good at adapting when you go through changes in your work life, both geographic and thematical changes. I think that’s why I was able to acclimatize to Bangalore rather quickly. Honestly, Bangalore makes it very easy on you as everyone is so welcoming. That would also be the major difference to my previous postings: Bangalore welcomes one with open arms, more so than other places.
How has your family adjusted to life in Bangalore, and what aspects of Indian culture have you and your family found particularly enriching? Are there any specific Indian cuisines or traditions that you and your family have particularly enjoyed?
My wife and kids loved Bangalore. My kids were only 2 years and 9 months old when they arrived here. Culturally speaking, they are very Indian. Beginning from their mannerisms (the infamous “head bob”) to the way they speak. They communicate in English with an Indian accent, highlighted by many Kannada and Hindi words, which they have picked up along the way. We will miss the great Indian festivals, Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali being our favorites. Food wise, the answer is clear to me: Nothing beats a Paradise Chicken Biryani, the best one I had in Hyderabad with a view of Charminar!
You have been a strong advocate for Indo-German cooperation in sustainable and green cities, as well as in hydrogen diplomacy. Could you provide an update on the current status and future prospects of these initiatives?
India and Germany are connected through the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership, a shared vision based on the belief in interconnectedness of environmental and economic well-being. I think it is this duality that holds promise for an enduring partnership in the future. For example, India has undertaken to become a major player in the production of green hydrogen. Germany in turn has committed sizable financial resources to import the same.
India and Germany are both countries rich in culture and heritage. What commonalities have you observed between the two countries, and how have these influenced your diplomatic efforts, particularly in fostering bilateral cooperation?
Indian and German cultures intersect in the most interesting and unexpected areas. Traditional Indian heritage, like Ayurveda and Yoga, has seen a huge surge in popularity in Germany and has a faithful following. When you pass through Cochin airport, you feel as if half of Germany is on their way to their Ayurveda/yoga retreat in Kerala. Likewise, Germany’s love for beer and beer brewing is ever present in Bangalore. I felt that structuring our cultural diplomacy around these commonalities has a huge impact in fostering a connection between our two people.
In your view, what areas hold the greatest potential for Indo-German cooperation? How do you foresee the overall trajectory of India-Germany relations evolving over the next decade?
I think it is the exchange of people. Especially skilled labor migration from India to Germany continues to grow and will only pick-up. From nurses to IT-professionals, the Indian diaspora in Germany is expanding and is needed to ensure Germany’s future economic prosperity. The demographic development in Germany will continue to provide opportunity for Indian labor in the years to come.
What advice would you offer to young diplomats aspiring to work in international cooperation? Are there any specific lessons you have learned from your experience in India?
