THE GERMANY VISIT
Highlights of PM Modi's visit to Germany
Highlights of PM Modi's visit to Germany
From 12th April to 14th April the Prime Minister embarked on his visit to Germany. His visit brought a paradigm shift in India-Germany ties. The two nations agreed to enhance co-operation in a wide range of issues.
The visit to Germany opened new avenues for upgrading India’s technological capabilities. The Prime Minister gave tangible traction to his conviction that to make his dream of ‘Make in India’ real, India has to acquire high technological capabilities and achieve world class skill competencies. Germany is the ideal partner to achieve these goals.
Shri Modi’s historic speech in the Hanover Fair converted many into believers in India’s success story and a promising future.
The Hannover Fair, the largest industrial trade fair in the world, saw a strong and highly visible campaign on "Make in India", which left a deep impression on the minds of the global industry assembled at the Fair. Prime Minister made an effective case for emergence of India as a global manufacturing hub. India had the largest ever presence in the Hannover Fair, with 14 States, 120 CEOs and 350 companies participating in the Fair.
Skill development constituted the common theme of Prime Minister’s interactions in Germany, ranging from the political leadership to business leaders in the field of manufacturing and high-tech development. A Letter of Intent was signed to provide a framework for extensive cooperation in this important sector. The Prime Minister’s visit to a training establishment where he interacted with young interns made a deep impact on the German manufacturers.
Prime Minister’s emphasis on developing railway infrastructure as a hub of economic activity evoked deep German interest. His visit to the Central Railway Station in Berlin highlighted his vision of integrated commercial development of railway stations.
Prime Minister and Chancellor Merkel identified steps to advance collaboration in specific priority sectors: manufacturing, urban and smart city development, Clean Ganga Mission, railways, renewable energy, urban waste and water management, skills development, education, environment, language and Science & Technology. Letters of Intent were also signed in the fields of renewable energy and urban development.
This book takes you through the highlights of the PM’s visit, including the warm welcome he received in Hannover and Berlin.
“I leave Germany with great satisfaction. This visit will strengthen India-Germany ties.”
We, the Prime Minister of India and the Federal Chancellor of Germany, met in Hannover and Berlin to exchange views on upgrading and further strengthening our Strategic Partnership. We view each other’s development as mutually reinforcing and offering significant opportunities for expanding cooperation between the two countries. Our common objective is to encourage greater synergies between German engineering, experience in sustainable development, innovation and skills, and the new opportunities available in India and through ‘Make in India’, ‘Clean India’, ‘Digital India’ and other initiatives towards achieving economic growth and sustainable development. India’s participation as Partner Country at Hannover Messe 2015 is a welcome expression of our common desire to strengthen this cooperation.
We are exploring ways of expanding our dialogue on foreign policy and security issues. We welcome the proposed visits of the Defence Minister of Germany to India and the
External Affairs Minister of India to Germany before the Inter-Governmental Consultations. Taking our partnership into the future, we will also work together on meeting global challenges such as climate change, energy and food security.
We look forward to our 3rd Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in India in October 2015. Our Strategic Partnership is entering a new and more intensive phase. In order to strengthen this cooperation, we agreed to encourage our respective Ministries/Departments to take proactive steps to advance our collaboration in the following areas.
1. Manufacturing:
Utilize the momentum generated by India’s participation in the Hannover Messe to foster stronger ties between business and industry on both sides in order to support India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. Greater investments, a positive investment climate and technology partnerships are crucial for the success of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
2. Skill Development:
Expand existing Indo-German cooperation through new initiatives, including a road-map for enhancing employability of trainees and apprentices by strengthening industry involvement in Skills
German dual system.
3. Urban Development: Strengthen the bilateral cooperation through the establishment of a working group on urban development. Support development of urban planning and infrastructure in India, including (a) Cooperation in the development of new areas of collaboration and mutual benefit in the development of smart cities in India; (b) Setting up peer-to-peer network of Municipalities for direct collaboration; and (c) Assistance in the area of affordable housing.
4. Environment: Strengthen the bilateral cooperation through the establishment of two working groups in the areas of water and waste management.
5. Railways: Support for the modernization of the railway infrastructure including setting up of semi high-speed and high-speed railways and training and skill development of personnel in the rail sector starting with signalling and telecommunications and a high-speed rail system.
6. Cleaning of Rivers: Following the completion of the Ganga Scoping Mission in October 2014 by Germany, develop cooperation on Ganga River rejuvenation strategies, capacity support for urban sanitation, setting up of standards, approaches to
industrial pollution and innovative financial models.
7. Renewable Energy: Support India’s proposed objective of 175GW of renewable energy by 2022 through technical and financial support for developing comprehensive solar rooftop and green energy corridor projects in India.
8. Education: Promote closer educational exchanges, including through setting up of an International Center for Advanced Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences, strengthening collaboration between universities in India and Germany through the Indo German Strategic Partnerships in Higher Education program, and enhancing the exchange of scientists between both countries, e.g. in the framework of India’s GIAN initiative.
9. Language: Support the respective programs and efforts in India and Germany to broaden knowledge of each other’s languages among the youth in accordance with the national policy of each country.
10. Science and Technology (S&T): Both sides declared their intent to promote closer R&D Cooperation in science, technology and innovation, in particular through extending the tenure of the bi-national Indo-German Science & Technology Center in India with appropriate resources, the
cooperation arrangement between Ministry of Earth Sciences, India and Helmholtz Association, Germany for Institutional collaboration in the area of Earth Sciences, and understanding between National Council of Science Museums in India and Leibniz Association, Germany on closer cooperation in science communication
We agree that we strengthen our efforts towards carrying on negotiations for an ambitious EU India Free Trade Agreement with a
view to its early conclusion.
Our discussions in Germany have established a robust road-map for expanding our multi-faceted and mutually beneficial ties. We are confident that this will receive a further boost during the visit of the German Chancellor to India for the 3rd Inter-Governmental Consultations.
During the Germany visit the Prime Minister wrote on Op-Ed for leading German Newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. His piece revolved around the strong potential for India-Germany co-operation in several areas. He listed out some of the key steps taken by the Government of India to facilitate a good environment for industry and more importantly the steps taken for the poor, farmers and youth of India.
PM Modi on:
“For the first time in three decades Indian voters gave a clear majority mandate to a government. The verdict was for change and for good and effective governance. It was also a call for development reflective of growing aspirations of India’s youthful millions.”
“We have re-energised the Indian growth engine. The credibility of our economy has been restored. India is once again poised for rapid growth and development.”
“My government has earnestly taken up the challenge of development and economic transformation of India. For us, development is not a mere political agenda; it is an article of faith.”
“Our focus is not merely economic growth but an inclusive development. This requires creating jobs, upgrading skills, raising productivity, benchmarking quality with global standards. Our aim is to completely eliminate poverty and to propel all Indians into a life of purpose and dignity
“Generating jobs for India’s youthful population is a key to harnessing India’s demographic advantage.”
“Through our “Act East” and “Link West” policy, India has the potential of becoming the middle ground for East and West as a manufacturing hub that serves both our vast domestic market and becomes a base for global exports and general well-being.”
“My Government has pledged a stable and transparent tax regime, reducing corporate taxes and implementing a single Goods & Services Tax in 2016.”
“My Government is giving the highest priority to the Skills India programme. We will focus on promoting models of vocational training according to specific needs of local industry, and to adopt best practices from abroad.”
“Our focus on development of Smart Cities is aimed at providing the basic necessities of affordable housing, clean water and a safe environment for our people.“
“We share a strategic partnership based on our common values. India desires a mutually beneficial partnership for growth and prosperity with Germany.”
“My visit to Germany and India’s participation at the Hannover Messe as a Partner Country is aimed at realising the immense possibilities that exist between us.”
“We see Germany as our preferred partner in developing skills of young Indians. We also want to learn from Germany’s path-breaking experiences in renewable energy. We wish to replicate your success in solar roof-top projects and off-grid solar and wind power solutions, as well as your expertise in grid integration and management.”
“We admire Germany’s achievements in the application of technology solutions to meet environmental challenges. You are also our natural ally in my Government’s “Clean India” initiative. We also want to benefit from Germany’s experience in cleaning the River Ganga.”
During the Joint Press Conference with Chancellor Merkel, the Prime Minister answered a few questions from the media.
The Prime Minister answered questions on his Germany visit, terror and reforms in the United Nations.
On the what India has to offer to the world, the PM said, “Today the entire world is looking towards India. India is among the fastest growing economies and we have the advantages of demography, democracy and demand. We envision India as a manufacturing hub with the spirit of Zero Defect, Zero Effect.” He invited German companies to manufacture in India and work together with Indian companies. This includes co-operation in several sectors, ranging from skill development, railways, defence manufacturing to name a few.
The Prime Minister called for collective efforts to mitigate the menace of terror. He said, “Terrorism is a big threat to humanity. All those who believe in the power humanity, irrespective of their language, traditions, it is essential they come together and speak out against terror.” He added that there was a time when India was categorical about the menace of terrorism but the world would say it is India’s law and order problem. Today, the world has realized the seriousness of terrorism and the threat it holds for humanity.
On the reforms in the United Nations, the PM pointed out that in a time when the UN is celebrating 70 years of its existence, and when we are commemorating the centenary of World War I, one should remember the contribution of India, which sacrificed so many of its soldiers in a War where it was not directly participating. Similarly, India has been an active participant in the UN Peace Keeping Forces.
He remarked, “The Nation where non-violence is a part of the ethos, a Nation that is the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi, if that Nation has to wait for so many years, then justice should be done to that Nation.”
“Chancellor Merkel and I had fruitful meetings. We discussed several issues relating to India-Germany ties.”
“My visit to the Hannover Messe was memorable. I am glad at the enthusiasm for India and ‘Make in India.”
The lions are a symbol of a new India. They roar; but with a message of friendship and promise of partnership, from 1.25 billion people of India.
India is open and ready to embrace the world.
As I have travelled around the world, I have seen a new level of interest in building partnerships of trade, investment and innovation in India.
“Come, see for yourself the winds of change in India!”
I am here to assure the German companies that India is now a changed country. Our regulatory regime is much more transparent, responsive and stable. We are taking a long-term and futuristic view on the issues.
Our growth rate is about 7%-plus. Most of the international financial institutions including the World Bank, IMF, UNCTAD, OECD and others are predicting even faster growth and even better in the coming years. MOODY’s have recently upgraded the rating of India as “positive” on account of our concrete steps in various economic segments.
Indo-German partnership should and will flourish. I expect very good outcome from this coming together. Let us work together in mutual interest and for welfare of the people of the two great countries.
I invite you to India. I assure you of my personal attention in your success while you are in India.
“My visit to the Berlin Hauptbahnhof was a valuable experience. Leant a lot about Railway infrastructure and modernization.” Prime Minister’s visit to the Central Railway Station in Berlin highlighted his vision of integrated commercial development of Railway Stations.
Identifying Germany as one of the most advanced nations in the field of skill development was a major focus of the Prime Minister’s interactions in Germany, ranging from the political leadership to the leaders in the field of manufacturing and high-tech development. The Prime Minister’s visit to training establishments like the Siemens Technical Academy, where he interacted with young interns left a deep impact on the German manufacturers. Many companies keen to invest in high technology areas assured the Prime Minister of their concurrent efforts towards skill development. They also were quick to catch on the Prime Minister’s suggestion that trained manpower from young India could form the mainstay of their global manufacturing activities in the years to come.
The Prime Minister today gifted the German Chancellor Angela Merkel reproductions of some manuscripts and papers by Sir C V Raman who received the Nobel Prize in physics in 1930 for his work on scattering of light and whose life journey, even though he performed most of his studies and experiments in India, had a strong connection with Germany.
A major inspiration for Shri C V Raman to pursue science as a career was the famous 19th century German physicist Hermann von Helmholtz. In a speech, he once compared von Helmholtz to Isaac Newton. Helmholtz’s famous book The Sensations of Tone motivated Shri C V Raman to undertake a scientific study of acoustics of both Indian and western musical instruments.
Two of the scientists who nominated him for the Nobel Prize were the German physician Richard Pfeiffer and the German physicist Johannes Stark who had won the Nobel in 1919. The terms Raman Effect and Raman Spectrum themselves were coined in 1928 by a German physics professor at Berlin University, Dr Peter Pringsheim.
In 1928, Sir C V Raman invited Arnold Sommerfeld, the leading theoretical physicist in Germany, to lecture at the Calcutta University. There, Sommerfeld saw a demonstration of the Raman Effect and the two went on to form a lasting friendship. In 1933, Shri Raman took over as the Director of Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore (now Bengaluru) where he invited several German scientists. These included George von Hevesy who went on to win the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 1943. In 1935, Max Born, one of Germany’s leading theoretical physicists of that time (and, later, a Nobel Prize recipient), spent six months at the Institute.
The seeds of Indo-German research collaboration were sown in Shri Raman’s time. Such collaboration has grown immensely over the years and now Germany is one of India’s leading partners in research. Modern laser technology and advances in techniques for the detection of scattered light have made Raman spectroscopy an important tool for the analysis of liquids, gases, and solids, and Raman’s work finds extensive application in diverse areas, including quantum chemistry – a field in which Chancellor Merkel holds a doctorate.
Chancellor Merkel presented an original first edition print of Max Mueller's 1898 book, 'Ramakrishna- His Life and Sayings' to PM.
The Prime Minister presented to the Lord Mayor of Hannover a Madhubani painting depicting various stages of life, association with nature, as also the interconnected nature of life on Earth. Painted on canvas by a 70-year old national award winning artist Smt Baua Devi.
The Madhubani style of painting refers to the rural art form developed by women from Mithila, an area in the eastern Indian state of Bihar. The painting is done with fingers, nib–pens, twigs and matchsticks, generally using natural dyes and pigments, and is characterized by eye-catching geometrical patterns. Most of the Madhubani paintings depict man and his association with nature, and scenes and deities from ancient epics. Natural objects, plants, social events are also represented in these paintings. There are paintings for each occasion and festival.
Unveiled Gandhi ji’s statue in Hannover.
The ideals of Gandhiji inspire people
across the world.”
“My visit to the Berlin Hauptbahnhof was a valuable experience. Leant a lot about Railway infrastructure and modernization.” The Prime Minister interacted with the Indian diaspora at a community reception in Berlin.
“In the coming days, it is the need of the hour that India becomes a manufacturing hub. We can't let this opportunity go.”
“Can the diaspora become a Setu with India? The people of India have high expectations from you.”
“What is required is balanced growth. India is a big Nation, 3 things must be balanced- agriculture, manufacturing and services sector.”
“India must become a manufacturing hub. This is not only an economic activity but also a matter of great pride for us.”
“India is proud of its diversity. Our secularism is based on very secure foundations.”
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today said the time is right for India to emerge as a global manufacturing hub. In his remarks at the Community Reception in Berlin, the Prime Minister said that the Information Technology revolution had made the world take notice of India’s youth power. He urged young professionals in Germany to act as a bridge between India and Germany, especially since Germany was a world leader in manufacturing. The Prime Minister said India needs the right
environment for young talent to prosper. He said events like the Hannover Fair, where India is a partner country this year, are opportunities for India to both showcase its capabilities, and to learn from the work others were doing. He added that such events help us gear up to face new challenges. He said India must aim to become a “zero-defect, zero effect” low-cost manufacturing hub. On the subject of global warming, the Prime Minister said India must set the agenda for the forthcoming UN climate change conference in Paris. He said respect for nature is inherent in the Indian ethos. The Prime Minister called for balanced growth in the Indian economy, with equal emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing and services.
