Dr. Kathrin Misera-Lang has recently assumed the role of Consul General of Germany ad interim in Chennai. Just hours after taking office, she visited the Indian International Leather Fair to inaugurate Amann India’s exhibition booth at the request of Mr. Sanjeev Grewal – Regional Business Director of Amann Group, and paid a visit to the German pavilion.
In her first interview after assuming office, she shares her thoughts on Indo-German relations, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. During this occasion, she expressed enthusiasm about her new role and her vision for fostering stronger partnerships between Germany and India.
A Diplomat’s Journey to India
With a distinguished career in the German Federal Foreign Office, Dr. Misera-Lang brings years of diplomatic experience to her new role. Although this is her first posting in India, she is no stranger to the broader region, having previously served in Singapore, which also has a small Tamil community. Her initial days in Chennai have been marked by warm receptions and a keen interest in deepening Germany’s engagement with South India.
The Growing Indo-German Partnership
India and Germany have shared a strong bilateral relationship for decades, which has only strengthened over time. Highlighting this, Dr. Misera Lang referred to the Indo-German Green Sustainable Development Partnership, signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Olaf Scholz in 2022, which was the start of a new era for Indo-German cooperation. . The collaboration spans crucial areas like sustainable energy, industrial modernization, and climate initiatives, positioning India and Germany as key allies in global sustainability efforts.
Business is a vital pillar of this relationship. Germany remains India’s largest trading partner within the EU, with deep-rooted partnerships, especially in automotive and manufacturing industries. German small and medium-sized enterprises (Mittelstand) have increasingly established production facilities in India, drawn by the skilled workforce and business-friendly infrastructure. As trade fairs such as the International India Leather Fair and Bharat Tex continue to attract German businesses, Dr. MiseraLang believes that there is immense potential for further expansion and collaboration.
Education and Cultural Exchange: A Flourishing Relationship
One of the strongest links between India and Germany is in education. Germany has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian students, offering world-class education at affordable costs. Today, Indian students form the largest group of international students in Germany, with more than 45,000 currently enrolled in various universities. Institutions like Max Müller Bhavan play a significant role in fostering interest in the German language and culture, further strengthening ties between the two nations.
In addition to education, Germany actively promotes cultural exchanges, reinforcing the strong connection between the two countries. The rise in German language learners and student mobility reflects the deepening educational and cultural relationship.
Germany’s Role in India’s Growth Story
With India poised to become a $10 trillion economy by 2030, Germany is committed to playing a pivotal role in its growth. Ms. Misera-Lang emphasized that German businesses are keen to co-invest, collaborate, and contribute to India’s industrial expansion. The skilled workforce and growing infrastructure make India an attractive destination for German investments, particularly in sectors like automotive, engineering, and sustainable manufacturing.
Germany’s new skilled labor strategy is designed specifically to attract Indian talent. With a focus on facilitating work and study opportunities, Germany is welcoming skilled professionals and students from India to strengthen its workforce. The initiative underscores the growing mutual reliance between the two nations and opens doors for young Indians seeking international career opportunities.
A Vision for the Future
As she embarks on her tenure in Chennai, Dr. Misera Lang is eager to strengthen Indo-German ties further. She aims to promote business opportunities and networks such as the German-Indian Roundtable. She would like to encourage Indian professionals to explore opportunities in Germany. Her vision is to create a bridge that fosters economic, cultural, and educational collaborations, ensuring that the long-standing Indo-German partnership continues to thrive.
Expressing her gratitude, she concluded, “Germany welcomes India’s young talent with open arms, and I look forward to contributing to this remarkable relationship. I am honored to be here and excited about the journey ahead.”
With the Indo-German partnership evolving across economic, educational, and cultural spheres, the appointment of Dr. Kathrin Misera Lang as Consul General comes at an opportune time. As both nations continue to explore new avenues of cooperation, her leadership is expected to drive stronger ties, reinforcing Germany’s commitment to being a key partner in India’s growth journey.
