October 21, 2024
The German Cabinet’s strategic paper emphasises the need for stronger defence ties to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific
India’s growing role on the global stage is recognised, especially in multilateral groups such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the Quad
Germany seeks closer collaboration with India on international security issues, including the Russia-Ukraine war and balancing China's influence in the Indo-Pacific
Germany is expanding its military presence in the Indo-Pacific and increasing cooperation with India's armed forces as part of its security engagement
Germany has unveiled a strategic document, “Focus on India,” ahead of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to India from 24-26 October. The document outlines its intent to enhance defence cooperation with India to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The German government plans to elevate the long-standing strategic partnership with India, which has been in place since 2000, to a higher level, with initial steps set to be discussed during the Indo-German intergovernmental consultations.
According to the German Cabinet’s document, India’s importance in global politics continually increases. As the world’s most populous country and a stable democracy, India is a key voice for developing nations, particularly within the G20 and other multilateral forums like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The paper also highlights the growing significance of India’s partnerships with the United States, Australia, and Japan through the Quad, particularly in promoting freedom, openness, and security in the Indo-Pacific.
The document reflects India’s concerns over China’s expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing the need for both nations to collaborate on maintaining regional stability. Acknowledging India’s role as a central player in international politics, Germany aims to continue high-level dialogues between their foreign and defence ministries, ensuring closer alignment on critical security matters. It also noted India’s potential to contribute significantly to resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Germany’s focus on the Indo-Pacific is part of a broader strategy to protect the rules-based international order, which faces growing pressure in the region. Both nations are committed to defending this order amidst shifting power dynamics and escalating military activities. In line with this, Germany has been increasing its military presence in the Indo-Pacific and strengthening its defence ties with India as part of its broader security engagement.
Source: Economic Times