.jpeg)
"These are legitimate issues and not everyone plays by the same rules," said the External Affairs Minister.
"Instability anywhere has consequences everywhere. We see the EU and Germany as key players in the energy scenario and recognise the reality of interdependence," said Jaishankar while addressing the annual ambassadors conference of the German foreign office in Berlin on Tuesday.
On trade with China, he said it should not impact national security, adding that the government is well within its rights to tell businesses if trade has a bearing on national security. "These are legitimate issues and not everyone plays by the same rules," said Jaishankar.
Meanwhile, talking about the resolution of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, he reiterated PM Modi's view that this is not an era for war.
"PM Modi went to Russia and Ukraine. We don’t think this conflict will be resolved on the battlefield. The main parties have to be at the negotiating table," he added.
Responding to a query of a German investor in India about bureaucratic hurdles, Jaishankar said they are aware of this challenge.
"Challenges that businesses face due to bureaucracy is a reality and we recognise it. PM Modi has maintained that there is a need to shake up the environment and facilitate ease of doing business," he added.
Bilateral trade between India and Germany is valued at $33 billion and there is hope that mutual investments will increase.
"Defence cooperation must be given greater thought, especially as the Indian private sector expands in that domain. It will require export controls updating as well. We welcome the recent air exercises between India and Germany and await the impending ship visits to Goa," Jaishankar added
