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In a significant diplomatic engagement, India and Germany have committed to expanding their collaboration in emerging technologies, digital platforms, and renewable energy.
This decision was reached during the India-Germany Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), held in New Delhi on July 15.
Strategic Talks and High-Level Meetings
The FOC was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Dr. Thomas Bagger, State Secretary of the German Foreign Office. The discussions aimed to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, which have been long-standing allies in various sectors.
Dr. Bagger also held meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.
Comprehensive Review of Bilateral Relations
During the consultations, both sides conducted a thorough review of India-Germany bilateral relations.
Key areas of cooperation discussed included trade, investment, science and technology, defence, development cooperation, and academic and people-to-people exchanges. The talks emphasized the need to deepen and diversify ties in contemporary sectors such as emerging technologies, digital platforms, and the green economy.
Focus on Emerging Technologies and Digital Platforms
A significant outcome of the discussions was the agreement to focus on emerging technologies and digital platforms. Both nations recognized the importance of these sectors in driving future economic growth and innovation.
The cooperation is expected to include joint research initiatives, technology transfer, and development of digital infrastructure.
Renewable Energy and Green Economy
Renewable energy was another key topic, with both sides committing to bolster cooperation in this critical area.
Germany, known for its advanced green technologies, will support India’s efforts to transition to a green economy. This partnership will involve sharing best practices, investment in renewable energy projects, and collaboration on policy frameworks to combat climate change.
Upcoming Inter-Governmental Consultations
The FOC served as a preparatory platform for the 7th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC), scheduled to be held in New Delhi in October. These biennial consultations are a unique dialogue format that Germany conducts with only a select group of partner countries. The upcoming IGC will be chaired by the leaders of both nations and is expected to further solidify bilateral ties.
Business Collaboration at Asia-Pacific Conference
In addition to governmental discussions, both countries expressed optimism about the forthcoming Asia-Pacific Conference of German Businesses (APK) in New Delhi.
This event is anticipated to enhance business-to-business collaboration, providing opportunities for companies from both nations to explore partnerships in various sectors.
Strengthening Multilateral Cooperation
One of the pillars of the India-Germany strategic partnership is their shared interest in strengthening multilateral cooperation and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The consultations underscored the commitment of both nations to work together on global issues, ensuring a collaborative approach to international challenges.
As the two countries gear up for the intergovernmental consultations in October, the outcomes of the FOC signal a strong commitment to expanding their strategic partnership, with a clear focus on future-oriented sectors and global cooperation.
