Signaling deepening strategic and economic ties, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has called India a “rising economic powerhouse” and reaffirmed Germany’s full support for finalising the long-delayed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU).
Speaking during his official visit to Delhi in a joint press conference with EAM S Jaishankar, Wadephul underscored India’s growing global importance as the world’s most populous country, the largest democracy, and a leading technology and innovation hub.
“India has special importance in a region that is strategically crucial. Our economies have a lot to gain from expanding cooperation,” Wadephul said. “I was in Bengaluru yesterday, and I saw firsthand what an innovative powerhouse India has become.”
His remarks come amid growing global interest in India’s economic rise and stand in contrast to recent comments by US President Donald Trump, who controversially referred to India as a “dead economy” while defending his decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Indian imports. New Delhi strongly criticised those tariffs as “unjustified and unreasonable.”
In contrast, Germany is pushing for greater trade integration. Wadephul reiterated Berlin’s commitment to seeing the FTA concluded soon. “Germany is in full support of getting this agreement done. We are a free trade nation, and the EU is working hard on this. You can be assured we will push with all our arguments to make it happen.”
EAM Jaishankar emphasised that the economic partnership with Germany is ready for expansion. “Three, our two-way trade last year was almost €50 billion. Minister Wadephul is on record — I saw one of his interviews — where he said he was very confident we will be doubling our trade,” Jaishankar noted. “Let me assure him that India fully reciprocates that sentiment and looks forward to working closely with the German Government.”
Jaishankar also highlighted India’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business for foreign investors. “Last year, we hosted a very successful conference in Delhi with APK —the German Industry Association. I reiterated to the Minister today that any concerns German companies may have — in entering, establishing, or operating in India — will be given special attention,” he said.
Both ministers also discussed expanding cooperation in defence and security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
With rising concerns over China’s assertive behaviour, Wadephul stressed the importance of preserving a rules-based order and maritime freedom -- goals both countries are aligned on.
As global economic and geopolitical dynamics continue to shift, India and Germany appear poised to elevate their partnership -- with trade, innovation, and strategic alignment at the heart of their renewed engagement.
India and Germany recently celebrated 50 years of scientific collaboration. Building on this milestone, both countries are now focused on deepening that partnership and forging stronger links between science and industry. Our ongoing dialogues in cyber and digital domains are also key areas of strategic importance.