Will Germany Finalize the Free Trade Deal with India by Year-End?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Germany aims to finalize the Indo-European Free Trade Agreement with India by year-end.
- Growing cooperation between India and Germany highlights their commitment to economic and political ties.
- Burkart emphasizes the importance of the UN Charter in guiding international relations.
- The German Day of Unity serves as a platform for cultural exchange.
- Recognition of winners from the German Model Parliament promotes democratic engagement.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25 (NationPress) Germany is optimistic about finalizing the long-delayed Indo-European Free Trade Agreement with India by the end of this year, stated Achim Burkart, the Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany for Karnataka and Kerala.
During the 'German Day of Unity' event held here on Saturday, Burkart emphasized the increasing collaboration between the two countries.
"In a world filled with challenges, there exists hope and positivity. One of these beacons is the strengthening ties between India and Germany, along with the mutual intent to conclude the Indo-European Free Trade Agreement by year-end," he remarked.
In light of ongoing global disputes, the Consul General reiterated that both nations are dedicated to the principles outlined in the UN Charter.
He affirmed that Germany will continue its efforts to achieve a sustainable and just peace in Ukraine, aligned with UN guidelines.
"This UN Charter symbolizes the belief that collaboratively established rules are more resilient than arbitrary force, that dialogue leads to sustainable resolutions rather than the rule of the powerful, and that every individual deserves a life of dignity," he stated.
Burkart warned that the ideals set forth during the UN's founding 80 years ago face unparalleled challenges today.
He highlighted that India and Germany will closely collaborate to uphold and defend these principles, thereby enhancing multilateral cooperation.
The event was attended by G. Vijaya Raghavan, Chairperson of the Goethe-Zentrum in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi, and co-hosted by Honorary Consul Syed Ibrahim.
Burkart also recognized the winners of the German Model Parliament, an educational initiative that fosters democratic dialogue and cross-cultural understanding.
The festivities concluded with a musical performance by Buck Roger and the Sidetrackers, adding a cultural vibe to the diplomatic occasion.
The annual German Day of Unity serves as a platform to strengthen bilateral relations, encourage cultural exchange, and underscore Germany's ongoing commitment to collaboration with India on economic, political, and social levels.