NEW DELHI, June 26 (ANI) — German Ambassador to India Philip Ackermann has described India-Germany relations as being at an “all-time high,” highlighting growing cooperation in trade, political engagement, and strategic sectors including green energy and defence.
In an exclusive interview with ANI, Ackermann said bilateral ties continue to strengthen each year, with expanding collaboration under the Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development.
“I’m very happy to say that every year we get stronger and closer relations,” he said.
He noted India’s emergence as a global leader in renewable energy, adding that Germany has contributed to this progress while also learning from India’s private sector advancements.
“India is now one of the most impressive producers of renewable energy, and I am proud to say Germany has played a part in this development. We are now even learning from India, particularly from the advancements in your private sector,” he said.
On the long-pending India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the ambassador expressed optimism, calling it a “huge game changer” for German businesses and investment in India.
“We hope to see it signed by the end of this year,” Ackermann said. “Unlike other FTAs, this one is much less controversial in the European Parliament. I am an optimist, and I believe that by the end of the Indian fiscal year, we should be ready to implement it.”
On defence cooperation, Ackermann said ties are entering a new phase of growth, particularly as negotiations continue on a submarine deal between India and Germany.
“Defence will be a new chapter, which will be larger than in the past years,” he said, adding that engagement in the sector is now showing a “new blossom.”
Discussing global geopolitical developments, the ambassador referred to recent tensions in the Persian Gulf, saying a pause in hostilities had helped stabilize oil prices and trade flows. He also expressed hope for progress in diplomatic talks over Iran’s nuclear program.
On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Ackermann said the battlefield situation remains largely stagnant, though Ukraine has used advanced technologies to strike deep inside Russian territory.
However, he said there is little indication of diplomatic progress.
“Frankly, and I will be very honest with you, I don’t see any readiness by the Russian side to engage in this discussion, and that is very frustrating,” he said.
He added that Europe continues to stand firmly with Ukraine despite the prolonged conflict.
“The conflict will last, but you should know that Europe… is standing firmly with Ukraine,” he said.
The ambassador also highlighted the growing Indian diaspora in Germany, citing success in skilled migration in sectors such as nursing, caregiving, and engineering. He pointed to the presence of around 60,000 Indian students in Germany as a key factor strengthening people-to-people ties.
“As the diaspora grows, people-to-people ties will inevitably become closer,” he said.
On sports, Ackermann expressed support for the German football team, noting the challenges of following matches due to time differences in India. He described the ongoing tournament as highly competitive with expanded participation. (ANI)
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