Rosemarie E Hille, the Deputy Consul General at Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Kolkata during her first visit to Jharkhand on Saturday focused on the close ties between Germany and Modi Government. She was here as a guest at the inaugural ceremony of two-day workshop for local coaches by the trained Indian coaches from ITK leipzig University, Germany. In an exclusive chat with The Pioneer, she shared her and German Government’s perspective about India. Excerpts:
What brings you to JharkhandIJ
I am basically here to highlight and further strengthen the already close ties between India and Germany. The ITK leipzig University funded by the Foreign Office of Federation of Germany is organizing this workshop with the Jharkhand Government. So, I am here. The course to train coaches of various countries in ITK started in 1964. More than 4000 coaches from 144 countries have been trained till date of which over 100 coaches are from India. It is an encouraging fact. Sports are an important part of bringing two nations together. It is a medium to bring global development.
What about Modi’s recent visit in GermanyIJ
PM Modi visited Germany in April. During a meeting of Modi and German Chancellor Angela Markel it was decided to enhance the close ties between the two countries. We are partners in areas like politics, economics, education and culture. Sports are part of culture. There are many opportunities especially, in vocational training.
Your views for IndiaIJ
It has been almost five years of my stay in India. Earlier, I was posted in New Delhi and later I shifted to Kolkata. Officially and politically, I know the country. I like the diversity of the country. It has lot of similarities with Germany. For instance, people of both countries are frank, open-minded and friendly. The languages of our countries reflect it.
Do you plan re-visit JharkhandIJ
I will soon come back for a special visit to go through the amazing nature.