German Election Outcomes Won’t Affect India Relations, Says Ambassador Ackermann

Philipp Ackermann, Germany’s ambassador to India, confirmed that the recent elections will not affect Germany’s foreign policy towards India, despite the AfD’s rise. He noted the importance of migration reforms and optimistic trends in trade and investment, particularly with Indian students and professionals. Ackermann also emphasized the need for Ukraine to be involved in negotiations on its crisis and acknowledged India’s potential role in future discussions.

Philipp Ackermann, the German ambassador to India, affirmed that the recent German elections, including the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, will not alter the country’s foreign policy direction regarding India. He expressed confidence that the new government would endeavor to strengthen ties with India despite internal challenges.

In an interview, Ackermann emphasized the significance of the elections, noting the high voter turnout of 82.5%, which indicates the election’s importance to the German populace. He recognized that the entrance of the AfD into parliament at over 20% would lead to complex discussions but insisted that foreign policy consensus among major German parties would remain stable.

The ambassador pointed out that there is a crucial distinction between legal migration, which Germany seeks to enhance, and illegal immigration, which it aims to reduce. Despite psychological unease surrounding migration in Germany, Ackermann noted the government’s commitment to facilitating legal migration for professionals, including Indians, amidst rising concerns about illegal immigration.

He highlighted the growing number of Indian students in Germany, which has increased to 280,000, reflecting a consistent rise in issued visas annually. Ackermann stated that Indian workers are well-regarded in various sectors, attributing this to successful integration within the German workforce.

With bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion, Ackermann remains optimistic about continued positive trends in investment and trade relations between Germany and India. He noted that interest in India as an investment destination is notably rising among German companies, particularly in services and research and development areas.

Regarding the ongoing Ukraine crisis, Ackermann stressed the necessity for Ukraine to be included in any negotiations and praised India’s unique position of being able to communicate credibly with both Russia and the West. He affirmed that India’s involvement could be pivotal if negotiation formats broaden in the future.

In conclusion, the German government’s approach to strengthening relations with India appears unaffected by the recent electoral shifts, with a clear commitment to migration reforms and trade enhancements intact. Ackermann’s insights offer a balanced understanding of Germany’s priorities in foreign policy and migration in light of its domestic political landscape.

In summary, Ambassador Philipp Ackermann has stated that the German elections will not affect the nation’s foreign policy regarding India. With continuous emphasis on strengthening legal migration and trade, particularly with Indian professionals and students, Germany is poised to maintain and possibly enhance its partnership with India despite emerging political challenges domestically.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com