Jaishankar Meets German Counterpart, Focus On Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in his discussion with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, focused on expanding bilateral cooperation and addressing global challenges. This marks Jaishankar’s second visit to Germany this year, following his participation in the Munich Security Conference.

Highlighting India’s political stability after its recent general elections, Jaishankar said that the continuity in the government, which is prepared to act swiftly on key international partnerships. He expressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is executing a 100-day program that prioritises strengthening ties with key partners like Germany.

The discussions included the Ukraine conflict, the situation in Gaza and developments in the Indo-Pacific. Jaishankar also emphasised the importance of reforming the United Nations, noting both India and Germany's aspirations for a larger role in the UN Security Council.

On the economic front, both ministers discussed expanding trade, which currently stands at around USD 30 billion annually. They highlighted new opportunities in sectors like semiconductors, electric mobility and renewable energy. Jaishankar also said that India's commitment to building greener and more sustainable growth through partnerships like the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership signed two years ago.

Further, Jaishankar commended the progress made under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, which has facilitated smoother movement of professionals and students between the two countries. With 125,000 Indian nationals working in Germany and 50,000 Indian students studying there, he acknowledged the importance of further enhancing visa processes.

Defence cooperation between India and Germany is also one of the main pillars of the relationship. Jaishankar said that the first-ever air exercises held between the two nations and upcoming naval engagements underscored the growing security collaboration.

Both nations believe in shaping a stronger, more dynamic partnership between the two nations in areas ranging from trade to security and global governance.