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The German foreign minister also noted that while cooperation is important, China remains a strategic competitor for Germany in multiple sectors
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul | File Image
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Wednesday said Berlin holds a positive view of India-China relations and believes it is for the two Asian neighbours to decide how they wish to shape their relationship and future.
Addressing a joint press conference with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Wadephul said that Germany welcomes dialogue between New Delhi and Beijing but stressed the need to safeguard the “international rules-based order.”
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“I have a positive view of the Indo-Chinese relationship. I have no judgement — it is up to them to shape it. We always welcome when two countries try to understand each other,” Wadephul said.
At the same time, he noted that while cooperation is important, China remains a strategic competitor for Germany in multiple sectors.
“We also have to defend the international rules-based order, including against China. We see China as a competitor, and we believe in fair competition. We don’t want rivalry,” he added.
The minister further said Berlin remains open to rebuilding trust with Beijing, remarking, “We are always willing to return to the partnership spirit.”
Wadephul added that he was impressed by India’s growth in the technology sector and stated that Berlin and New Delhi have a lot to gain by expanding cooperation.
“Our economies, in particular, have a lot to gain if we are to expand our cooperation further. I was in Bengaluru yesterday, and I saw for myself what an innovative powerhouse and technology centre India has become,” Wadephul
He further noted India’s “special and strategic” importance in the world.
“As a rising economic powerhouse and the most populous country and biggest democracy in the world, India has a special importance in a world region that is of strategic importance,” he said.
Wadephul and Jaishankar also discussed global challenges during their bilateral meeting, with the German Foreign Minister noting that both sides voiced concern over China’s growing assertiveness and agreed to deepen cooperation in defence, security, and armaments.
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