30-October-2024-Editorial

INDIA-GERMANY INTERGOVERNMENTAL CONSULTATIONS

India and Germany share a significant partnership marked by cooperation in various sectors. Recently, Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Scholz co-chaired the 7th round of India-Germany Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

Focus on India Document:

• Germany released the “Focus on India” document, which serves as a framework for collaboration.
• It aims to position India and Germany as a “Force for Global Good,” focusing on innovation and technology, and promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Skilled Workforce Visas:

• Germany announced an increase in skilled worker visas for Indians, raising the quota from 20,000 to 90,000.
• This initiative aims to attract skilled professionals to fill workforce gaps in Germany.

Digital and Technology Partnerships:

• Both nations finalized a work plan addressing internet governance, tech regulations, and digital transformation.
• They also focused on emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and digital agriculture.

Critical and Emerging Technologies:

• India and Germany reaffirmed their commitment to the Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap, focusing on critical and emerging technologies and skill development.

Disaster Mitigation:

• Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to enhance research in disaster mitigation between Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).

Space Cooperation:

• New Space India Ltd partnered with GAF AG, a German remote sensing company, to upgrade a ground station in Germany for satellite data processing.

Green and Sustainable Initiatives:

• Both countries stressed the importance of working together on climate goals and initiated the Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap.
• They also discussed sustainable urban mobility in India.

India-EU Strategic Partnership:

• Both nations supported the India-EU Trade and Technology Council and worked on connectivity initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Track 1.5 Dialogue:

• The leaders emphasized the importance of a Track 1.5 dialogue involving think tanks and experts to foster mutual understanding.

Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC):

• The leaders agreed to upscale successful projects in African nations and launch new initiatives in Ethiopia and Madagascar related to millet cultivation.

Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT):

• An MLAT was concluded to strengthen cooperation in criminal matters and improve joint efforts to address security challenges.

Importance of India-Germany Relations

• Robust Trade Relations: Germany is India’s largest trading partner in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching USD 21.76 billion in FY 2020-21.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Germany ranks as the seventh-largest source of FDI in India, with investments exceeding USD 13 billion.
• Innovative Collaborations: Collaborations in automotive technology and advanced sectors foster innovation and skills development.
• Support for Market Entry: Programs like “Make in India Mittelstand” assist German SMEs in entering the Indian market.
• Financial Assistance: Germany provides soft loans and technical support for India’s infrastructure and sustainable development efforts.
• Shared Security Concerns: Both nations recognize the security threats posed by China and aim to collaborate on defense projects, such as joint submarine development.
• Joint Climate Initiatives: The partnership focuses on addressing climate change through the Agenda for Green and Sustainable Development.
• People-to-People Connections: Young educated Indians seek job opportunities in Germany, while Germany needs skilled workers, creating mutual benefits.

Challenges in India-Germany Relations

• Depth of Partnership: Despite being strategic partners since 2000, the relationship lacks depth compared to India’s ties with France.
• Investment Treaty Issues: The absence of a Bilateral Investment Treaty limits investor confidence and deeper economic engagement.
• Concerns on Democratic Values: Germany’s criticism of India’s democratic practices can strain relations, leading to resentment in New Delhi.
• Divergence on Russia: India’s cautious stance on Russia’s actions in Ukraine has led to disappointment in Germany.
• Limited Defense Cooperation: Historical reluctance from Germany to engage in defense cooperation hinders deeper collaboration.
• Public Engagement: Greater interest in China than India in Germany is reflected in funding and media coverage.
• Paternalistic Attitudes: Dismissive language regarding the Global South can undermine mutual respect.

Way Forward

• Enhance Political Engagement: Regular high-level meetings can foster ongoing dialogue between the two countries.
• Expand Track 1.5 Dialogue: Including more stakeholders can enhance understanding and cooperation.
• Boost Defense Ties: Developing structured frameworks for defense cooperation can strengthen ties.
• Respect for Sovereignty: Germany should acknowledge India’s sovereignty to reduce friction.
• Collaborative Global Efforts: Joint initiatives on global challenges can reinforce both nations’ roles as responsible powers.

Conclusion

The recent IGC signifies a step towards deeper collaboration between India and Germany. By addressing challenges and focusing on mutual benefits, both countries can strengthen their partnership and contribute to global issues effectively.