The global economy and global politics have turned the spotlight on two rising powers, China and India. The pecking order of the two states with their billion-plus populations seems obvious. China is already being seen as a new superpower that is on a par with the US. And whilst India may not be a world power, it dominates South Asia and the Indian Ocean.That is why the Europeans have devoted far more time and energy over the past few years to China, which is a totalitarian regime, than to India, which is a democracy. However, in the recent past moves have been afoot to upgrade the status of India. Whilst it is still too early to speak of a new trend, there are very good reasons why Germany and Europe should cooperate with India. It could be a reliable partner at the start of the "Asian Century" on account of its cultural similarities, common economic and (security) policy interests, and above all as a result of a shared set of values based on democracy and the rule of law.