India and Germany’s 7th Inter Governmental Consultations
Overview
The 7th Inter Governmental Consultations (IGC) between India and Germany will take place in New Delhi on October 25 and 26. This event will be co-chaired by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The IGC, a biennial event initiated in 2011, allows both nations to review their cooperation and explore new areas of engagement at the Cabinet level.
Focus Areas
This year’s IGC will emphasize technology, sustainability, green transition, migration, mobility, and innovation. The discussions will build on the India-Germany Vision Document released during Chancellor Scholz’s state visit to India in 2023. Additionally, there will be a focus on enhancing defense and security cooperation.
Science and Technology Cooperation
India and Germany are celebrating 50 years of Science and Technology Cooperation. This partnership has led to projects in space research, AI, sustainability, and more. At the 6th IGC in Berlin in 2022, both countries signed agreements on green development, including a significant Green and Sustainable Development Partnership.
Recent Developments
Germany has released two India-centric documents: an India strategy titled ‘Focus on India’ and a skilled labor strategy aimed at improving workforce mobility from India to Germany. These strategies highlight Germany’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.
Economic and Development Partnership
Germany is India’s largest trading partner in the EU, with trade reaching USD 33.33 billion in 2023. Over 2000 German companies operate in India, contributing to a robust economic partnership. Development cooperation has been a key component of bilateral relations for 60 years, with projects like the Nagpur Metro Rail and green energy corridors.
Migration and Mobility
Migration and mobility are crucial elements of India-Germany relations. Approximately 2.5 lakh Indian nationals reside in Germany, with Indian students forming the largest group of international students in German universities. The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement was signed in December 2022.
Upcoming Events
India will host the 18th Asia Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) in New Delhi from October 24-26, 2024. This event will further boost trade and investment ties between the two countries, with around 650 business leaders and CEOs expected to participate.
Doubts Revealed
Inter Governmental Consultations (IGC) -: Inter Governmental Consultations (IGC) are meetings where leaders from two countries come together to discuss important topics and make plans to work together. In this case, it’s a meeting between India and Germany.
PM Modi -: PM Modi refers to Narendra Modi, who is the Prime Minister of India. He is the leader of the Indian government.
Chancellor Scholz -: Chancellor Scholz is Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany. He is the head of the German government.
Sustainability -: Sustainability means using resources in a way that does not harm the environment and can be maintained for a long time. It involves taking care of the planet for future generations.
Defense cooperation -: Defense cooperation means that two countries work together to improve their military and security. This can include sharing technology, training, and strategies to keep both countries safe.
Science and Technology Cooperation -: Science and Technology Cooperation is when two countries work together on scientific research and technological development. This can include projects like space research and artificial intelligence (AI).
Asia Pacific Conference of German Business -: The Asia Pacific Conference of German Business is a meeting where German businesses discuss trade and economic opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. It helps improve business relations between Germany and countries in Asia, including India.