German Elections: No Impact on India Relations, Asserts Ambassador Ackermann
German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann stated that the recent elections in Germany, with the rise of the far-right AfD, will not affect foreign policy toward India. The focus will remain on enhancing bilateral ties and facilitating legal migration. Despite some political challenges, there is optimism for continued trade and investment between Germany and India, coupled with India’s potential role in peace negotiations over the Ukraine crisis.
Philipp Ackermann, the German ambassador to India, asserts that the recent German elections, characterized by the rise of the far-right AfD party, will not hinder Germany’s foreign policy, particularly its commitment to strengthening ties with India. He emphasized the importance of balancing legal migration with the prevailing uneasiness surrounding immigration issues in Germany, which are being addressed by the government. The ambassador recognizes the valuable contributions of Indian workers and students, noting the increasing number of Indian nationals in Germany, which reflects a positive trend in bilateral relations.
Regarding the coalition negotiations following the elections, Ackermann outlined the challenges faced, particularly the reluctance of major parties to partner with the AfD. He indicated a strong emphasis on foreign policy consensus among significant German political parties, suggesting continuity in the approach towards India, as laid out in the previous government’s strategic document, “Focus on India.” This continuity extends to economic relations, as Germany seeks to bolster free trade agreements to promote collaborative efforts with India amid growing global trade challenges.
Despite concerns regarding immigration, Ackermann assured that there are no restrictions on legal migration channels for Indian professionals. Acknowledging the psychological unease towards immigration within Germany, he stated that the government would work to differentiate between legal migration, which is essential for various sectors, and illegal immigration, which requires curtailment. The increasing number of Indian students in Germany is indicative of the favorable perception of Indian talent within the German economy.
Furthermore, with bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion, the ambassador expressed optimism about continued positive developments, particularly in investments and services. He articulated that while the scale of investment may fluctuate, there is a growing interest in India as a destination for foreign investment, especially in research and development and production. The attention gained from events such as the Asia Pacific Conference of German Businesses indicates a robust trajectory for bilateral trade relations.
On the subject of the Ukraine crisis, Ackermann highlighted the need for inclusive negotiations to establish a path to peace, implying that Europe and India might play crucial roles in these discussions. He stressed that Ukraine must have a seat at the negotiating table to ensure that any agreements consider its sovereignty. Ackermann recognized India’s unique position to mediate through its relationships with both parties, emphasizing its potential contributions as negotiations progress.
In conclusion, Ambassador Philipp Ackermann underscored that the dynamics of the recent German elections will not derail the strengthening of Germany-India relations. The continuity in foreign policy towards India reflects a recognition of the importance of collaboration in trade, migration, and global stability. As both nations navigate emerging challenges, particularly regarding immigration and international relations, there remains a robust framework for deeper engagement, fostering mutual growth and opportunities across various sectors.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
