New Delhi: Dr. Philipp Ackermann, the German Ambassador to India, reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering commitment to its partnership with India during his address at the NXT Forum 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He assured that there would be ‘no change’ in Berlin’s focus on India, even under the incoming leadership in Germany.
Ackermann emphasized that the transition in Germany’s political leadership would not impact the strong ties between the two nations. He reassured the audience that Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz would continue the “very, very dedicated and friendly course” that Germany has maintained with India. He also reiterated a position he had previously stated—that Germany’s foreign policy priorities would continue to revolve around European unity, strong transatlantic relations, and deepening engagement with key partners such as India.
Reinforcing the idea of policy continuity, Ackermann noted, “Foreign policy in Germany tends to be largely consensual. Whether the government is led by the Conservative Party or by left-centre parties, there has been a steady approach to foreign relations. The last conservative chancellor, Angela Merkel, enjoyed excellent relations with Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) and the Indian government. I fully expect the same from the new administration.”
He stressed once again that Berlin’s commitment to India remains firm. “I believe there will be no shift in Germany’s clear attention toward India or in our strong conviction that India is a crucial partner. I would not be surprised if key members of the incoming government travel to India in the coming months,” he added.
Germany held its general elections on February 23, with the center-right conservatives securing the highest number of votes and the far-right nationalists making significant gains. Following a 30-day parliamentary process and coalition negotiations, the new government is expected to be in place by April 20.
Speaking about the next steps in German politics, Ackermann acknowledged that with the conservative bloc securing victory, the country is now entering a crucial phase of coalition-building. “The Conservative Party, which has won the elections, requires a coalition partner to secure its position in parliament. This process will unfold in the coming weeks and may take a month or two. However, ultimately, Germany will have a stable, well-functioning government that represents centrist values,” he explained.
Looking at India’s economic trajectory, Ackermann recognized the country’s growing global influence. Speaking at the NXT Conclave 2025 in Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on Friday, he highlighted that with India poised to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, Germany acknowledges and welcomes India’s rise. He even stated that he “would not be surprised” if India surpasses Germany in economic rankings in the near future.
“We are eagerly waiting for India to overtake us in these statistics,” Ackermann remarked. “India is a nation of 1.4 billion people with a rapidly expanding economy. It is only natural that India moves up the global economic ladder. If this happens in the coming years, I won’t be surprised at all. A strong, growing Indian economy creates new opportunities for enhanced partnerships and deeper collaboration.”
Further elaborating on India’s economic potential, he highlighted the increasing interest among German businesses in working with India. “As India’s industrial sector grows and its private sector becomes more globally integrated, it will only strengthen bilateral trade relations between our two nations. This presents a tremendous opportunity for businesses on both sides,” he noted.
Ackermann’s remarks underscored the enduring strength of Indo-German relations and the immense potential for further cooperation in trade, investment, and diplomacy in the years ahead.