Philipp Ackermann, Germany’s ambassador to India, affirmed that the recent German elections, which saw the rise of the far-right AfD party, will not influence foreign policy towards India. He expressed confidence in continuing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and highlighted the rising interest in Indian professionals and students in Germany, alongside ongoing trade and investment growth.
In a recent interview, Philipp Ackermann, the German ambassador to India, stated that the results of the German elections, particularly the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, will not affect the country’s foreign policy, especially in relation to India. He emphasized the intention of the new government to continue strengthening the German-India partnership despite domestic challenges regarding migration and coalition formation.
Discussing the significant voter turnout of 82.5%, Ackermann explained that this reflects the high importance Germans placed on the election’s outcome. However, he noted the complexities within the parliament arising from the AfD’s substantial presence, highlighting the CDU’s reluctance to engage with both the AfD and the Left Party, which could restrict coalition options.
Ackermann pointed out that consensus on foreign policy exists among Germany’s major political parties, predicting no drastic shifts under the new government. He referenced the previous government’s “Focus on India” strategy, suggesting that the diplomatic alignment toward India would remain steadfast amid ongoing global tensions.
On the topic of legal migration, Ackermann assured that there would be no limitations on Indian professionals seeking work opportunities in Germany. While acknowledging the prevailing unease surrounding immigration, he asserted that Germany would continue to welcome skilled migrants to address workforce deficits across various sectors.
The ambassador reported a positive trend in Indian students choosing Germany for their education, with numbers rising significantly each year. Approximately 280,000 Indians currently reside in Germany, and there is a consistent increase in visa approvals, reflecting a strong bilateral commitment to educational exchange.
With two-way trade exceeding $30 billion, Ackermann expressed optimism about continued investments from Germany into India, especially in research and development and service sectors. Although potentials for billion-dollar investments in manufacturing might lessen, interest in India as a favorable destination for businesses remains high.
Regarding the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Ackermann asserted that any peace efforts are commendable. He stressed the necessity of including Ukraine in negotiations, rather than presenting them with unilateral options, and indicated that India’s role in mediating the situation could become significant as discussions expand and involve more stakeholders.
Philipp Ackermann stresses that the outcome of the recent German elections will not alter the trajectory of Germany’s foreign policy towards India. The ambassador highlights a continued commitment to strengthening ties amidst domestic political complexities and acknowledges the ongoing importance of legal migration. Encouragingly, India’s role is likely to be pivotal as international discussions evolve, especially concerning economic partnerships and global crises.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
