Modi and Scholz reaffirm commitment for cooperation on digital transformation

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Berlin as part of the 6th Indo-German Inter-Governmental Consultations on 2 May 2022. During their talks, the two heads of government acknowledged the importance of digital transformation as a key driver for technological, economic and societal change.

In addition, Modi and Scholz signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) establishing a Green and Sustainable Development Partnership. With this partnership, Germany intends to strengthen its financial and technical cooperation with India by investing at least 10 billion Euros until 2030. The goal, however, is to create a long-term partnership. This will promote German-Indian research and development (R&D) and encourage private investment. Both sides stressed the importance of swift implementation of existing and future commitments.

Germany and India are important partners in digitalisation and trade

Digital transformation, economic cooperation and trade were some of the key elements of the bilateral talks. Modi and Scholz emphasised the importance of partnerships on digital transformation. In this context, they appreciated the ongoing efforts, including the Indo-German Digital Dialogue.

The 6th Intergovernmental Consultation further highlighted that the Indo-German Digital Dialogue is an important instrument to facilitate cooperation on digital topics, such as internet governance, emerging technologies and digital business models. At the same time, both Germany and India expressed their support to benefit from synergies with other existing initiatives like the industry-driven Indo-German digital experts group.

Over the past few years, the emergence of new technologies has been progressively impacting many sectors. For instance, artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to affect global productivity, environmental protection, and social inclusion. This also provides an opportunity for the Indo-German Digital Dialogue to contribute to the cooperation on green and sustainable development between India and Germany.

6th IGC further strengthens the Indo-German Digital Dialogue

In 2017, both governments agreed on a Work Plan. It was signed under the JDI and guides the Indo-German Digital Dialogue. The JDI establishes the Indo-German partnership to facilitate cooperation on the political level. It also encourages cooperation between relevant stakeholders, including industry associations, companies and start-ups from India and Germany. For this purpose, both sides regularly exchange on topics such as regulatory harmonisation and share best practices.

Germany and India's diplomatic relations have now existed for more than seven decades. Today, the countries are linked by a strategic partnership. One of its key pillars is their shared interest in strengthening multilateral cooperation and in promoting a sustainable digital economy. Reaffirmation of the support to Indo-German Digital Dialogue during the Intergovernmental Consultations brings an opportunity to deepen the partnership, expand strategic convergences and enhance coordination on regional and global issues.

Please find the Joint Statement of the 6th Indo-German Inter-Governmental Consultations here.