Berlin: Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, currently on a European tour, called for Germany to update its export control regime to strengthen defence cooperation with India and to explore ways to increase bilateral trade and investment. Addressing a gathering of German ambassadors in Berlin on Tuesday, Jaishankar emphasized the need for greater collaboration in innovation and technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, fintech, and green technologies.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Germany following a visit to Saudi Arabia for the first meeting between Indian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) foreign ministers, highlighted the importance of close consultation on global issues to build trust between the two nations. After his discussions with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and other officials, Jaishankar will continue his tour with a visit to Switzerland.

During his address at the German foreign ministry's annual ambassadors’ conference, Jaishankar advocated for enhanced defence cooperation, especially as India's private sector expands in this field. He suggested that updating export controls would be necessary to support this cooperation and welcomed recent joint air exercises and upcoming ship visits to Goa.

Germany, known for its stringent defence export controls, has recently relaxed some measures to permit the sale of small arms to India and compete for a major submarine contract with the Indian Navy. This shift aligns with Germany’s broader defence policy reforms.

Jaishankar also pointed out India's economic potential, citing its nearly $4 trillion economy and projected 8% growth rate. He urged Germany to boost trade and investment levels, which currently stand at $33 billion. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming Asia Pacific Conference of German Business in New Delhi and the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (ICG) in providing strategic direction for their partnership.

Highlighting the need for a focus on digital technology, AI, and green technologies, Jaishankar noted the progress in the India-Germany green and sustainable development partnership, marked by 38 agreements worth 3.2 billion euros. He also encouraged continuous consultations on global issues to foster trust and confidence.

Jaishankar praised the doubling of Indian students in Germany to 43,000 over the past five years and suggested that talent flow could be further increased. He called for agreements on skills mobility to strengthen this “living bridge” between the two countries.

He underscored the importance of global technology, resources, and best practices for India’s growth and infrastructure development, advocating for a partnership based on mutual confidence and shared interests. Jaishankar urged Germany to engage more actively in the Indo-Pacific region, just as India is keen to deepen its involvement in the Euro-Atlantic area.

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