India has said it expects a strong political thrust from Germany for early conclusion of India-EU agreement as it will open up new economic opportunities to both sides. Briefing reporters on the three-day Prime Ministerial visit to Germany,Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai said Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will hold comprehensive talks, including on India-European Union FTA with German Chancellor Angela Merkel during his visit to Berlin. He said Dr. Singh will also clarify to the German leader the large number of steps and the reforms process taken up by India to improve investment in the country.
Mr. Mathai said that the second inter-governmental discussion between India and Germany will be held in Berlin under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister.He said cooperation in the field of trade and commerce, science and technology,education particularly vocational education and culture will be high on the agenda during bilateral discussions between the two sides. The Foreign Seceretary said the two sides will also be entering into some bilateral pacts in the areas including education, green energy and science and technology.
During his visit, Dr Singh will also call on the President of Germany.