GERMAN CHANCELLOR OLAF SCHOLZ'S VISIT TO INDIA

India and Germany share cordial bonds and their relationship is based on common democratic principles marked by trust and a common intent to invigorate deeper ties. 

- Dr. Arnab Chakrabarty

Over the past few decades, interactions have increased tremendously in economic, cultural, technological and political fields. Both countries have had a strategic partnership since 2001. Germany is India's largest trading partner in Europe and cooperation and of late cooperation has been extended to other fields as well. Both countries employ Intergovernmental consultations for quicker processing of agendas.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made a two-day visit to India to discuss important issues and deepen ties. The Chancellor quoted, "India and German have very good relations and want to deepen them. That will be the topic of our talks and, importantly, peace in the world, ". this was the fourth meeting of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. the visit of Chancellor Scholz is significant in light of India's G-20 Presidency and its principled position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India has always maintained that diplomacy would be the only answer to the ongoing conflict and called for peace while pointing out the huge humanitarian cost of war. Germany, on the other hand, declared its intent and support for Ukraine while calling Russian activities as imperialism. Additionally, it has condemned Russia and provided military aid to Ukraine amounting to 4.2 billion Euros" alongwith military hardware. Chancellor Olaf Scholz agreed that the foundation of the bilateral relationship is based on similar ideas, democratic ideals and a future of peace. Prime Minister Modi while maintaining India's principled position on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine added another dimension to the discussion, cross border terrorism and separatism. While appreciating Germany's position on these aspects the Prime Minister stated that terrorism, pandemics and economic fallouts are concerns that require addressing.