In a significant achievement, Germany and India have successfully completed their most recent round of development policy negotiations with pledges to further cooperation in key areas including renewable energy, urban development, mobility & agroecology.
The strategic discussions, chaired by Economic Affairs Secretary and German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), resound joint efforts between the two nations as well.
Indo-German Cooperation for Green and Sustainable Development
The Indo-German cooperation is guided by the Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development, which was established in 2022 following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The outcomes of these recent negotiations build upon that foundation, highlighting the continued focus on environmental sustainability, energy transition, and resilient infrastructure.
The German delegation head, Barbara Schäfer, emphasized Germany’s commitment to achieving concrete results in partnership with India. “With the launch of the ‘India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide,’ which Federal Development Minister Schulze and Energy Minister Joshi launched on September 16, 2024, during the 4th RE- Invest in Gandhinagar, we have taken this partnership to a new level. With our commitments this year, Germany has made it clear that it reliably fulfills its international obligations.”
€1 Billion Commitment from Germany for Key Projects
As part of the ongoing cooperation, Germany has committed over €1 billion in concessional loans and technical assistance this year for projects in sectors such as renewable energy, mobility, sustainable agriculture, forest ecosystems, and vocational education. Key developments include the construction of 7,700 kilometers of modern transmission lines, German-financed metro projects in Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Kochi, as well as support for climate-resilient agricultural practices in India.
Commenting on the importance of this partnership, Uwe Gehlen, Head of German Development Cooperation in India and Minister Counselor at the German Embassy, said, “The term ‘sustainable energy transition’ takes on a new quality when Germany and India combine their unique capabilities, setting a positive example not only in their own countries but also globally.”
Launch of India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy
A key milestone in this partnership was the launch of the India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide during the 4th RE-Invest conference, held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 16-18, 2024. This platform aims to accelerate investments and innovation in renewable energy both in India and globally.
Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms Svenja Schulze, spoke at the launch event, emphasizing the platform’s potential: ” With this collaboration, we will push forward concrete solutions and partnerships for the expansion of renewable energies in India. And we will seek and open up new financing channels. All to support India in reaching the 500 gigawatt target by 2030. All to slow down climate change. To diversify supply chains for renewable energy.” She also highlighted the platform’s role in fostering technological advancements, promoting women in the renewable energy sector, and improving access to affordable financing.
India’s Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Prahlad Joshi, also made a statement during the platform’s launch at RE-Invest, calling it a landmark initiative. “India and Germany have a long-standing history of cooperation in mutual respect, shared values, and common vision for sustainable work. Germany has been our trusted partner in India’s renewable energy journey, bringing the expertise in cutting technologies and strong commitment to clean energy development.” Joshi said. The platform will bring together international stakeholders from the private sector, development banks, and research institutions to enhance renewable energy deployment globally.
Chancellor Scholz’s Visit to India Set for October
These agreements also set the stage for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s upcoming visit to India at the end of October 2024. During this visit, Scholz will lead a large delegation for the 7th Indo-German Intergovernmental Consultations in New Delhi, with discussions focusing on development cooperation, defence, mobility, and skills development. Development cooperation will be a major theme, underscoring both countries’ shared commitment to tackling global challenges through strategic partnerships.
Expanding the Scope of Cooperation
With a broad agenda ranging from renewable energy to defense collaboration, the Chancellor’s visit is expected to reinforce the longstanding partnership between Germany and India while addressing contemporary challenges and leveraging each country’s unique strengths. The consultations will emphasize practical steps to expand cooperation, foster skill development, and ensure sustainable development goals remain a priority for both nations.