German Elections Will Not Affect India Relations, Says Ambassador Ackermann

The German ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann, stated that the recent German elections will not affect the country’s foreign policy, particularly its relationship with India. Despite the rise of the far-right AfD party, the new government is expected to continue enhancing bilateral ties and addressing legal migration. Trade, educational exchanges, and stability in foreign relations are anticipated to progress positively between Germany and India.

Philipp Ackermann, the German ambassador to India, asserted that the recent German elections will not significantly alter the nation’s foreign policy, particularly in regard to its relationship with India. Despite the far-right AfD party’s rise, he emphasized that the new government remains committed to strengthening bilateral ties with India, a partnership acknowledged for its positive outcomes with Indian professionals and students.

Ackermann remarked on the high voter turnout, indicating the election’s importance for Germany’s future. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the far-right’s emergence, including potential difficulties in coalition-building due to historical sensitivities surrounding right-wing parties.

He noted that the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is unlikely to collaborate with the AfD and would be seeking a coalition, maintaining a consistent foreign policy direction. A stable approach towards India is anticipated to continue, especially given the previous administration’s focus outlined in the “Focus on India” document.

The ambassador anticipates that Germany will maintain its free trade orientation and continue efforts to advance Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the EU. He underlined the enduring relationship with the United States while recognizing the globalized nature of the economy, suggesting tariffs could hinder trade.

On immigration, Ackermann highlighted the distinction between legal migration, which Germany urgently needs, and illegal immigration, which must be curtailed. He affirmed that the current liberal immigration laws will remain, contributing to the increasing number of Indian students and professionals in Germany.

He noted a surge in Indian students, with visa applications increasing annually. The ambassador praised the positive experiences German companies have had with Indian workers, anticipating further growth in this sector as bilateral trade continues to flourish, exceeding $30 billion.

Regarding the ongoing Ukraine crisis, Ackermann expressed the importance of Ukrainian involvement in peace negotiations. He acknowledged India’s unique position to engage with both conflicting parties and suggested that their inclusion in international discussions may depend on negotiation dynamics led by the US, emphasizing the need for broader dialogue.

In summary, Ambassador Philipp Ackermann reassured that the outcome of the recent German elections would not disrupt the country’s commitment to strengthening ties with India. Despite challenges posed by the rise of far-right sentiments, Germany will continue prioritizing legal migration and enhancing bilateral cooperation. As trade and educational exchanges between the two nations flourish, the ambassador remains optimistic about the future of Germany-India relations amidst evolving global dynamics.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com