On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the deepening relationship between India and Germany, referencing recent collaborative efforts as evidence of their growing friendship. Speaking at the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business 2024, he stated, “While the CEO Forum convenes here, our navies are also conducting joint exercises, with German naval vessels making a port visit in Goa. Shortly, the seventh inter-governmental consultations between India and Germany will take place.”
He added, “This signifies that the friendship between India and Germany is advancing at every step, across all fronts.”
PM Modi noted that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany strategic partnership, expressing optimism about the future: “As we celebrate 25 years of this strategic partnership, I believe the next quarter-century will elevate our cooperation to unprecedented heights. We have laid out a roadmap for a developed India over the next 25 years.”
He welcomed the German Cabinet’s recent release of the “Focus on India” document, which details how both nations—strong democracies and leading economies—can collaborate for the greater good. “At such a pivotal moment, the German Cabinet’s release of the Focus on India document is gratifying. This blueprint illustrates how our two powerful democracies can unite as a force for global benefit. It clearly reflects our mutual commitment to advancing our strategic partnership comprehensively. Germany’s trust in India’s skilled workforce is particularly noteworthy,” he remarked.
Furthermore, PM Modi expressed confidence that Germany’s decision to increase the annual issuance of visas for skilled Indian workers from 20,000 to 90,000 will enhance Germany’s economic growth.
He also highlighted that bilateral trade has surpassed $30 billion, noting, “Today, numerous German firms are operating in India, while Indian companies are swiftly expanding their footprint in Germany. India is emerging as a major center for diversification and risk mitigation, as well as a hub for global trade and manufacturing. Thus, this is an ideal time to ‘Make in India, Make for the World,’” concluded PM Modi.