In a world grappling with unprecedented uncertainty, the enduring partnership between nations is not merely valuable but “vital,” declared Dr Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Labour, Economy & Tourism for Baden-Württemberg, at the second edition of the News9 Global Summit Germany.
Speaking at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart on Wednesday, Minister Hoffmeister-Kraut emphasised, “We are meeting when the world feels less predictable than ever before, and uncertainty in global markets and political tensions and the need for sustainable solutions remind us that the partnerships across borders are not only valuable, they are vital.”
She further reinforced this sentiment, stating, “I firmly believe that a strong connection between India and Germany will help us all to shape a successful, common future.”
The Summit, a significant milestone coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Indo-German strategic partnership, is themed ‘Democracy, Demography, Development – The India–Germany Connect.’ Its overarching aim is to deepen bilateral ties across strategic, economic, and cultural spheres.
A key focus for elevating this relationship, according to the Minister, is the proposed free trade agreement between India and the European Union. Such a pact, she asserted, would “strengthen trust, reduce barriers and open new doors on both sides,” taking the bilateral relationship to its “next level.”
The News9 Global Summit is set to delve into critical areas of collaboration, including defence cooperation, vital technology transfers, innovative climate solutions, and the mobility of talent between the two nations. It also seeks to fortify the partnership between two of the world’s most developed democracies.
In a pleasant personal touch during the event, the MD CEO of the Tv9 Network, Brun Das, presented a portrait and shawl to Dr Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, recognising that the summit’s date coincided with her birthday.