New Delhi: Dr Philipp Ackermann, the German Ambassador to India, reaffirmed Germany’s steadfast commitment to its partnership with India while addressing the NXT Forum 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He assured that Berlin’s strategic focus on India would remain unchanged, regardless of the incoming leadership in Germany. Acknowledging India’s rapid economic growth, Ackermann emphasized that India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, a development that Germany both acknowledges and welcomes.
Reiterating Germany’s unwavering engagement with India, Ackermann stated, “I firmly believe that there will be no shift in Germany’s clear commitment to India or in our strong conviction that India is a vital partner for us. I would not be surprised if key members of the incoming government travel to India in the coming months to reinforce this partnership.”
Discussing India’s expanding global economic influence, he underscored Germany’s recognition of India’s remarkable trajectory. Ackermann acknowledged that with India’s continued economic ascent, it is entirely possible that it may surpass Germany in global economic rankings in the near future.
“We are eagerly awaiting India’s rise in these rankings,” he remarked. “A nation of 1.4 billion people with a rapidly growing economy is naturally positioned to move up the global economic ladder. If India surpasses Germany in economic size in the coming years, I won’t be surprised at all. A strong and thriving Indian economy presents new avenues for enhanced cooperation and deeper collaboration between our nations.”
Expanding on the theme of economic potential, Ackermann highlighted the growing interest of German businesses in partnering with India. He noted that as India’s industrial and private sectors become more integrated into the global economy, bilateral trade relations between India and Germany will continue to strengthen.
“This represents a tremendous opportunity for businesses from both countries to explore new avenues of cooperation and expansion,” he explained.
Ackermann’s statements underscored the enduring strength of Indo-German relations and the immense potential for future collaboration in trade, investment, and diplomacy. His remarks reflected Germany’s long-term confidence in India’s economic rise and the mutually beneficial opportunities that lie ahead for both nations.
Germany held its general elections on February 23, with the center-right conservative bloc emerging as the leading force while far-right nationalist parties made significant gains. Following the elections, a 30-day parliamentary process and coalition negotiations are set to take place, with the new government expected to assume office by April 20.
Commenting on Germany’s political landscape, Ackermann highlighted the crucial phase of coalition-building that the country is now entering.
“The Conservative Party, having won the elections, must now secure a coalition partner to solidify its position in parliament. This process will unfold over the next few weeks and may take a month or two. However, in the end, Germany will have a stable, well-functioning government that upholds centrist values,” he elaborated. Despite the leadership transition in Berlin, Ackermann reassured the audience that it would have no bearing on the strong and friendly ties between Germany and India. He emphasized that Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz would continue Germany’s longstanding and dedicated diplomatic approach toward India.