Germany eyes deeper ties with Jharkhand in coal and industrial sectors

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, June 11: Germany is looking to strengthen its economic relationship with Jharkhand, with a focus on coal-based industries and industrial development. During a recent meeting in Ranchi, German Ambassador to India Philip Ackermann and the embassy’s economy counsellor met Chief Minister Hemant Soren to discuss areas of mutual interest.

The ambassador highlighted Germany’s expertise in coal mining and noted the parallels with Jharkhand’s resource-rich profile. He expressed interest in partnering with the state to support industrial growth, particularly in energy and coal-related sectors.

The chief minister outlined the state’s ongoing efforts to attract global investment and reaffirmed government support for German businesses keen to enter the Jharkhand market. Ackermann also extended an invitation to Soren to visit Germany to explore further cooperation opportunities.

The meeting was also attended by Avinash Kumar, additional chief secretary to the chief minister.

Building on Spain Visit

Earlier, on Monday, senior officials from the Government of Jharkhand, led by Secretary of Industries Arava Raj Kamal, held a high-level follow-up meeting with Spain’s Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor, Lucia Paternina, at Jharkhand Bhawan in New Delhi.

The meeting was a continuation of Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s recent visit to Spain, which focused on promoting Jharkhand as a promising investment destination and exploring bilateral cooperation. The dialogue centred around formalising key outcomes of the visit into actionable partnerships.

Key sectors discussed included clean energy, mining technology, tourism, exhibition infrastructure, and industrial development. The Government of Jharkhand proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and establishing a dedicated Spain–Jharkhand Coordination Cell to ensure long-term collaboration.

 Cultural Exchange, Skills Development, and Investment in Focus

Both diplomatic engagements also explored the potential for collaboration in education, skill development, and cultural exchange, recognising the importance of people-to-people ties in strengthening bilateral relations.

A Spanish business and cultural delegation is expected to visit Ranchi later this year, with discussions underway for co-branding opportunities at upcoming investment summits and expos.

 Chief Minister’s Spain Visit

Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s recent visit to Spain was part of a broader effort to attract foreign direct investment and showcase Jharkhand’s strengths in industry, natural resources, and cultural heritage. The visit included meetings with business leaders and government officials in Madrid and Barcelona, laying the foundation for enhanced cooperation across multiple sectors.