Some glimpses of the Indian cultural programme at @hannover_messe. pic.twitter.com/kEtDyKjyAn — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 13, 2015

PM Modi with German Chancellor Merkel at the joint inauguration of Indian pavilion at Hannover Messe #ModiInGermany pic.twitter.com/dpOIX3U9kj — ANI (@ANI_news) April 13, 2015

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India has the potential of becoming a middle ground for the East and West as a manufacturing hub that serves both our vast domestic market and becomes a base for global exports through the government's "Act East" & "Link West" policy. Modi is on a two-day visit to Germany to seek investment.Pledging a stable and transparent tax regime, the Prime Minister wooed global investors, saying development is "not a mere political agenda" but an "article of faith" and sought international support to achieve the objectives crucial for growth.In an op-ed in German daily Franfurter Allgemeine, Modi writes, "We have re-energised the Indian growth engine. The credibility of our economy has been restored. India is once again poised for rapid growth and development. It is the only emerging economy where growth rate is rising. The prospects are even better"."For us, development is not a mere political agenda, it is an article of faith," PM Modi writes adding, "If we take all Indians together into better socio-economic future, I believe that world we share will be better place for all."Stating that India believes in "Rahein Saath Badhe Saath” (stay together, grow together), PM Modi says he visualizes India as a key engine of global growth."My government has pledged a stable and transparent tax regime, reducing corporate taxes and implementing a single Goods and Services Tax in 2016," he said.Pitching his Make in India campaign, PM Modi writes, "Generating jobs for India’s youthful population is the key to harnessing India’s demographic advantage.""This can be achieved only when we significantly and quickly ramp up our manufacturing capabilities. To meet this objective my Government has unveiled the "Make in India" initiative. This is a win-win for all," PM writes, adding, "The employment opportunities that new manufacturing will generate will enhance the purchasing power of our people. This in turn will create a market for more trade and investment. With 65% of our population below the age of 35, the possibilities that India's growth presents for global economic prosperity are immense."Calling Germany as a preferred partner in developing skills of young Indians, PM Modi says, "My visit to Germany and India’s participation at the Hannover Messe as partner country is aimed at realizing immense possibilities."Prime Minister Narendra Modi (centre) with German Chancellor Angela Merkel (2nd from right) and others at the opening of the industrial fair in Hannover, on April 12, 2015. (PTI photo)"India’s development needs can become business opportunities for German industry," he said adding, "Germany enjoys a special place in this context. We share a strategic partnership based on our common values."Seeking Germany's help in development initiatives, PM writes, "We see Germany as our preferred partner in developing skills of young Indians. We also want to learn from Germany's path-breaking experiences in renewable energy. We wish to replicate your success in solar roof-top projects and off-grid solar and wind power solutions, as well as your expertise in grid integration and management."Stressing India's concerns for environment, PM Modi writes, "We are aware that all development must be environmentally sustainable. India has always cherished its environment."