German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul Visits India, Praises Strong India-Germany Ties
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul was in India this week, visiting New Delhi on September 3. During his trip, he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Indian leaders, showcasing the growing partnership between India and Germany.
Wadephul expressed appreciation for India’s call for peace in Ukraine. He said, “Our countries have made good progress in strengthening our strategic partnership, especially in security, defense, trade, and skilled labor. We also truly appreciate India’s efforts to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine.” After his meeting with Prime Minister Modi, Wadephul shared these words on social media, highlighting the warm relations between the two nations.
Earlier in the day, Wadephul met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at Hyderabad House. During their discussion, the leaders talked about boosting cooperation in industries like digital technology, semiconductors, talent exchange, and critical tech development. Jaishankar praised Germany’s support for stronger ties with India and the European Union, especially in completing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). They also discussed India’s role on the global stage, including issues related to Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific region.
Wadephul’s visit came after his time in Bengaluru, India’s tech hub. The German minister called India a “key strategic partner” for Germany and praised Bengaluru’s role as a major center of innovation. On Facebook, he shared that Bengaluru is “the turbine of this economic powerhouse,” emphasizing its importance in technology and knowledge exchange. He visited the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Institute of Science, noting India’s huge investments in research and high-tech industries.
He highlighted the numerous collaborations between Germany and India, especially in high-tech sectors. For example, over 8,500 people work at the Mercedes-Benz development center in Bangalore, creating future innovations. Wadephul also opened a new Experience Center at the SAP campus, symbolizing Germany-India’s strong partnership in technology.
Wadephul observed that many Indian professionals and students are interested in Germany as a place to work, learn, and grow. He mentioned that in Bangalore alone, over 64,000 visa applications were filed in 2024. Germany welcomes talented Indian students and workers, and the focus now is on creating the right environment for collaboration — from research and innovation to employment and education.
Overall, Wadephul’s visit underlined the close ties between India and Germany. Both countries are working together on tech, trade, and global issues, aiming for a stronger, more connected future.
