70 Years of Strong Partnership

Cooperation began as early as 1951

One of Germany's most important partners in the Indo-Pacific is India. The two countries established diplomatic relations 70 years ago. At that time, India was one of the first countries to recognise the Federal Republic of Germany diplomatically after the Second World War.

“The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Government of India have agreed to exchange diplomatic missions of the rank of legations shortly.” With this short press release, the Federal Press Office announced the beginning of diplomatic relations between India and Germany on 7 March 1951.

On the occasion of the anniversary, Foreign Minister Heiko Maas acknowledged the special importance of Indo-German relations: "Germany and India are strategic partners. We are united by our vibrant democracies. We stand up for a rules-based world order - in the United Nations, but also as partners in the Alliance for Multilateralism."

Strong partners

Over the past seven decades, India has become one of Germany's most important partners in the Indo-Pacific. The two partners are united not only by common interests, which often lead to joint action, but also by their democratic constitution. On 18 May 2000, India and Germany signed the "Agenda for Indo-German Partnership in the 21st Century". This laid the foundations for the expansion of bilateral cooperation in a rapidly changing international environment. Since 2011, a key element of the exchange has been the bilateral Indo-German Government Consultations, at which the cabinets of both countries meet every two years. 

Cooperation

From the very beginning, scientific exchange has been a central pillar of cooperation. As early as 1956, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras was founded on the basis of a German-Indian intergovernmental agreement. The intergovernmental agreement on scientific and technological cooperation followed in 1974. India's reform policy and opening up of the Indian economy gave a boost to economic integration. Today, Germany is India's most important economic partner in the EU.

Development cooperation also remains important. The focus here is on issues of climate and environmental protection, the use of renewable energies and sustainable urban development, as well as educational aspects. (ps)