At the 18th Asia Pacific Conference of German Business held in New Delhi, Germany’s Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Robert Habeck, emphasized the urgency of reshaping Germany’s trade policies. In response to growing geopolitical tensions and rising skepticism, he highlighted the need to reduce Germany’s economic reliance on primary partners, especially China and Russia. “We are in a very complex situation, and we must reshape and recalibrate our economic success story,” Habeck noted, underlining Germany’s commitment to diversifying trade by fostering new partnerships and strengthening existing ones.
Habeck pointed to India as an essential partner, not only in the Asia-Pacific region but globally. He stressed the importance of solidifying a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, stating, “India is one of the most important partners here in this region, but also in the world.” He invited potential investors to Germany, noting that its single market provides significant advantages.
Reflecting on Germany’s historical reliance on global trade, particularly energy trade with Russia and commerce with China, Habeck acknowledged the challenges posed by current global shifts. He emphasized the need for strategic adjustments to adapt to the evolving economic landscape. Supporting Habeck’s views, Siemens CEO Roland Busch, who also serves as Chairman of the Asia Pacific Committee of German Business, called for increased investment in green technologies, manufacturing, and local ecosystems to create jobs and drive sustainable growth.
