NORTH NEWS
NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 25
Germany has pledged funding for projects worth 20 billion euros under its Indo-Pacific initiative, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced at a press conference following a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. During their talks, issues surrounding Ukraine and West Asia were discussed, with Misri affirming India’s position as a proponent of peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. When asked if the conflict was a topic during the Modi-Scholz meeting, Misri reiterated, “India is on the side of peace.
Earlier during the day, Prime Minister Modi welcomed German Chancellor Scholz and his delegation to India, marking Scholz’s third visit in two years, a testament to the robust strategic partnership between the two nations. During a joint press conference, Modi highlighted the various activities that have unfolded over the past few days, including the Asia Pacific Conference for German Business, the conclusion of the first Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) of Modi’s third term, and ongoing sports exchanges between their hockey teams.
Modi commended Scholz for Germany’s “Focus on India” strategy, which aims to modernize and enhance the bilateral partnership between the two democracies. He announced the launch of an innovation and technology roadmap that emphasizes a whole-of-government approach to Critical and Emerging Technologies, Skill Development, and Innovation, fostering cooperation in fields like Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductors, and Clean Energy. This initiative aims to build secure and resilient global supply chains.
The Prime Minister noted the deepening collaboration in defense and security, marked by the signing of an agreement on the exchange of classified information and a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty. These agreements are set to enhance joint efforts in combating terrorism and separatism.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to green and sustainable growth, announcing the second phase of the Green Urban Mobility Partnership and the launch of the Green Hydrogen Roadmap. Modi emphasized the importance of cooperation in tackling the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, reiterating India’s stance that war cannot resolve issues and expressing readiness to contribute to peace efforts.
In the Indo-Pacific region, Modi and Scholz agreed on the significance of freedom of navigation and adherence to international laws. They also addressed the need for reforms in multilateral institutions, including the UN Security Council, to better meet 21st-century challenges.
People-to-people connections were highlighted as a crucial aspect of the India-Germany relationship. The leaders announced collaborative efforts in skill development and vocational education, including an agreement between IIT Chennai and Dresden University for a Dual Degree program. Modi expressed confidence that India’s young talent would find enhanced opportunities to contribute to Germany’s development, commending Scholz for his commitment to Indian capabilities.
In closing, Modi asserted that Scholz’s visit has infused new energy into the partnership, affirming a clear and promising future for India and Germany.
