New Delhi: Germany views the upcoming India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as transformative for bilateral trade, investment, and defence cooperation, German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann said in an exclusive interview.

Ahead of the India-EU Summit in January, Ackermann highlighted Germany’s backing for closer defence and security cooperation between India and the EU, including ongoing discussions on a submarine deal and expanded joint ventures in the defence sector. “Europe considers India a very strong partner and ally when it comes to the defence of the international rules-based order,” he said.

Commenting on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, Ackermann noted it presented a rare opportunity for India to urge Russia to end the war in Ukraine, while also acknowledging India’s unique position of maintaining good relations with both Europe and Russia.

On trade, Ackermann described the India-EU FTA as a game changer, promising to reshape business perceptions and investment flows. Germany sees India’s sustained 8% economic growth and a balanced trade relationship as key attractions for German companies. He also emphasized the importance of finalizing an Investment Protection Agreement to ensure predictability and security for investors.

Regarding security in the Indo-Pacific, the ambassador acknowledged India’s challenges along its northern borders and supported dialogue with China as a means to maintain regional stability.

Ackermann also praised the Indian diaspora in Germany, now numbering around 300,000, for its contributions to the economy and society. He highlighted Germany’s continued recruitment of Indian professionals, particularly nurses and caregivers, while warning students and job seekers to exercise caution against unscrupulous agents.

“The India-EU partnership is poised to strengthen not only trade but also security, education, and people-to-people ties,” he concluded, expressing optimism about the summit’s outcomes and Germany’s ongoing engagement with India.