External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a six-day tour of Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Switzerland. His visit is focused on strengthening India’s relationships with these countries and discussing key global and regional issues.
Meetings in Germany
On Wednesday, Jaishankar met Jens Plotner, Foreign and Security Policy Advisor to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The two discussed important strategic developments. Earlier, Jaishankar also met Friedrich Merz, Chairman of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, and members of the CDU-CSU parliamentary group. These discussions focused on the relationship between India and Germany as well as global issues.
Jaishankar expressed his pleasure after the meeting, sharing pictures on X (formerly Twitter). He appreciated the insights from Merz and the CDU members, stating that their suggestions would help strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
Meeting Chancellor Olaf Scholz
Later that day, Jaishankar called on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. He conveyed personal greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the German leader. The two discussed the bilateral relationship between India and Germany, as well as regional and global issues. Jaishankar appreciated the suggestions offered by the German leaders, which could lead to a stronger partnership between the two nations.
Discussion with Foreign Affairs Experts
Jaishankar also participated in a lively conversation with foreign policy and security experts. This event was organized by the Munich Security Conference in Berlin. During the conversation, Jaishankar shared his thoughts on the changing global order and the rise of multipolarity, where many countries share global power rather than just a few. He also discussed global security challenges and how India and Germany can work together on these issues.
Conversations with German Parliament Members
In addition to meeting with government leaders, Jaishankar interacted with members of the German parliament, known as the Bundestag. He appreciated their insights on global issues and welcomed their support for stronger ties between India and Germany.
Jaishankar also met with Michael Roth, Chairperson of the Bundestag Committee on Foreign Affairs. They discussed current global challenges and explored new ways that India and Germany could collaborate.
Discussions with German Foreign Minister
Earlier, Jaishankar held wide-ranging discussions with his German counterpart, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. The two leaders reviewed the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. They talked about trade, defence, and security cooperation. This partnership has become increasingly important as both countries face growing global challenges.
Focus on Saudi Arabia and Switzerland
Before his visit to Germany, Jaishankar was in Saudi Arabia. He attended the first-ever India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue. This meeting was held in Riyadh from September 8 to 9. It was an important step toward improving relations between India and the Gulf countries.
Jaishankar will also visit Switzerland after his stay in Germany. He will spend two days in Geneva from September 12 to 13, where he is expected to meet Swiss leaders and discuss various international issues.
Strengthening Partnerships
Jaishankar’s visit to Germany is part of a broader effort by India to strengthen its ties with key global partners. The discussions in Germany reflect the growing importance of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. Both nations are working together to address global challenges, including security threats, economic development, and the changing political landscape.
The visit also highlights the significance of India’s relationships with other countries, including Saudi Arabia and Switzerland. By building strong partnerships, India hopes to play a bigger role in global affairs and promote its interests on the world stage.
Future Prospects
Jaishankar’s meetings with German leaders and foreign policy experts demonstrate India’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Germany. The discussions covered important topics like trade, security, and global challenges. As India continues to build partnerships around the world, these talks play a key role in shaping the future of its foreign policy.