Friedrich Merz's two-day visit to India, which began on Monday, reflects Germany's growing need to find new economic and strategic partners, says “Handelsblatt”.
“The times when German chancellors traveled with economic delegations to China and relied on stable growth are a thing of the past. The federal government must focus on diversification, and India is now a logical first target,” adds the German daily.
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India in the new world order
India, as the fastest growing large economy, plays a key role in the Indo-Pacific region and is increasingly marking its position in the global order.
“For the European Union and Germany, this country is a huge opportunity: as a sales market, a place of production and a counterweight to excessive dependence on China“- notes the German daily.
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At the same time, India, like Europe, must face a new geopolitical reality in which China, Russia and the United States no longer play by the current rules of the game. In this situation, rapprochement between India and Europe seems a natural step.
Challenges in relations with India
However, “Handelsblatt” warns that India may prove to be a difficult partner for Germany. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently pursued policies that primarily serve the interests of his country. As the newspaper notes, in security matters, India still maintains close relations with Russia, from which it imports oil and gas.
“Whoever negotiates with Delhi must remember that they are dealing with a country that knows its own interests perfectly,” the daily emphasizes.
A new chapter of German economic policy
However, Merz's trip to India is more than just an attempt to strengthen relations with this country. According to “Handelsblatt”, this is a symbolic turning point that marks the beginning of a new German economic policy.
In a world where markets and influence are being redistributed, Germany must adapt its strategies to the changing reality.
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The decision to focus on India instead of China shows that Berlin is beginning to recognize the need to diversify its economic relations. However, will Germany be able to find a balance between cooperation and protection of its own interests in relations with such a demanding partner as India? Time will tell the answer to this question.
