By dpaTIN24 Editor AMIT ALHAT
November 16, 2025, 10:17 IST
Berlin/Dubai – German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche embarked on a pivotal four-day tour to the Gulf region on Sunday, with key stops in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, aiming to bolster economic partnerships amid shifting global dynamics.
Reiche’s itinerary includes co-chairing a high-profile German-Emirati energy forum and engaging in strategic discussions with top officials from both nations. She is joined by a robust economic delegation, featuring Martin Blessing, who serves as Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s personal investment envoy.
Highlighting the significance of these Middle Eastern allies, Reiche stated in Berlin prior to her departure: “Both countries are important partners in the Middle East – economically ambitious and strong in technology and capital.” She expressed optimism about forging tangible collaborations, noting that “a number of contracts signed involving major industrial cooperation” are anticipated during the visit.
The minister emphasized Germany’s renewed focus on pragmatic economic strategies, declaring, “We are returning to economic rationality, reforms and partnerships that focus on technology.” This trip underscores Berlin’s intent to prioritize innovation-driven alliances in a post-energy crisis era.
In the UAE, discussions are expected to touch upon the proposed acquisition of German plastics giant Covestro by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), the UAE’s state-owned energy behemoth. While the European Union has greenlit the deal with certain stipulations, the German government’s final approval remains pending, adding intrigue to Reiche’s agenda.
Shifting to Qatar, Reiche’s talks may address Doha’s recent warnings about potentially suspending liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Europe. This stems from concerns over the EU’s forthcoming supply chain legislation, which mandates companies to mitigate human rights and environmental risks across their operations.
Originally, the directive included stringent climate action requirements with severe fines for violations, but the European Parliament recently approved amendments to excise these obligations. Final negotiations between the Parliament and EU member states are now underway.
According to data from the German Gas and Hydrogen Industry Association, Qatari LNG constituted approximately 10% of the EU’s total imports in the first half of 2025, underscoring the stakes involved in maintaining smooth relations.
This visit comes at a crucial juncture as Germany diversifies its energy sources and seeks technological synergies with Gulf powerhouses, potentially paving the way for enhanced bilateral investments and sustainable development initiatives.
Author: The India News 24
TIN24 (The India News 24) The India News 24 (TIN24) is a Mumbai-based news Digital Media focusing on breaking news, local and regional issues in India, with content primarily in Marathi. It was established with an X (Twitter) presence since July 2022. Owner & News Editor: Amit Alhat Education: BA in Mass Communication Journalism (Graduate) Experience: 12 years in journalism Platforms: - Website: https://theindianews24.in - X (Twitter): https://x.com/the_indianews24 - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theindianews247 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theindianews_24
