Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently held talks to strengthen ties between their two countries. During Scholz’s visit to India, the leaders discussed a variety of topics, including the potential for a free trade agreement between India and the European Union. Scholz expressed his support for such an agreement, citing the benefits it could bring to both economies. The two leaders also signed agreements on cooperation in defence, trade, clean energy, and information technology.
Germany is currently India’s largest trading partner within the EU, and Scholz emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic ties between the two countries. The leaders discussed the need to counter China’s growing influence on the West, and signed agreements to increase cooperation in various sectors. Additionally, Scholz visited a German frigate and supply ship participating in joint German-Indian naval exercises in the state of Goa.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was also a topic of discussion during the leaders’ talks. Germany is one of Ukraine’s leading allies, and Scholz urged India to play a more active role in diplomatic efforts to end the war. Scholz expressed his concerns over Ukraine’s request to join NATO, stating that peace should be a pre-condition for NATO membership. He commended India for its efforts to advocate for a lasting and just peace in the region.
Scholz also highlighted the skilled Indian workforce in Germany, praising a migration and mobility agreement between the two nations. He noted the presence of nearly 250,000 Indian citizens in Germany, many of whom work in sectors with urgent needs. Scholz announced plans to increase visas for skilled Indian workers in sectors such as medicine, nursing care, and IT. He expressed his determination to attract even more skilled workers from India to address the needs of these sectors.
Overall, the talks between Modi and Scholz were aimed at strengthening the strategic relationship between India and Germany. The leaders discussed a wide range of topics, including trade, defence, clean energy, and information technology. They also addressed the conflict in Ukraine, with Scholz urging India to play a more active role in efforts to end the war. The presence of a skilled Indian workforce in Germany was also highlighted, with plans to increase visas for skilled workers in key sectors. Through these discussions and agreements, both countries hope to further enhance their partnership and collaboration.
