As India and Germany celebrate 25 years of their strategic partnership, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar laid out a vision to further strengthen bilateral ties for the next quarter-century. Speaking at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) Centre for Geopolitics, Geoeconomics and Technology, Jaishankar emphasized that the time is ripe to expand cooperation across key sectors to meet modern global challenges.
In his address, Jaishankar reflected on the evolving global landscape — including geopolitical tensions, the chip war, climate change, poverty, and the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic — and noted that these challenges have elevated the importance of India-Germany and India-European Union relations
“To be here early in the tenure of this government ensures we waste no time in forging a pathway to shape the next 25 years of our relationship,” Jaishankar stated.
Highlighting areas of potential collaboration, Jaishankar outlined four priority sectors:
- Defence and Security: He called for revitalizing historical defence cooperation between the two countries, acknowledging a renewed interest in recent years. “Both countries would benefit from enhanced cooperation — through joint exercises, port visits, improved export licensing, and deeper technological and equipment collaboration,” he said.
- Talent and Mobility: Jaishankar emphasized leveraging India’s demographic advantage to build a global workforce. He pointed to the demand-supply match between India’s young population and Germany’s ageing workforce, suggesting structured mobility and talent partnerships.
- Technology and Digital Innovation: The minister proposed deeper collaboration in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and digital transformation, underscoring the role of technology in driving both nations’ future economies.
- Sustainability and Green Growth: Jaishankar advocated for stronger cooperation in sustainable development and green technology, including clean energy initiatives. He expressed hope for progress on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which he said would significantly boost trade and investment.
Sharing updates on social media, Jaishankar wrote on X:
“A good interaction @dgapev this evening. Spoke about India and Germany coming closer to promote global stability, security and prosperity. Discussed new opportunities in the bilateral relationship, as well as with the European Union. Preparing for a stronger partnership in a multipolar world.”
Reaffirming India’s long-term commitment to the strategic relationship, Jaishankar said both countries must now look forward, not just in reaction to current events, but in proactive pursuit of shared global leadership in a multipolar world.