During Chancellor Scholz’s visit to India, the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party was also invited to join the delegation. Leif-Erik Holm, a Bundestag member and the AfD’s economic advisor, was slated to participate but had to cancel due to illness. In an interview with the Times of India, Holm discussed AfD’s perspectives on immigration, the party’s stance on extremism, and Germany’s need for skilled Indian professionals. He stressed that while AfD opposes unrestricted illegal immigration, it fully supports the migration of skilled workers who contribute positively to Germany’s economy.
Holm addressed concerns about AfD’s stance, noting that labels like “far-right” and “populist” misrepresent the party’s views, which he describes as conservative-liberal. He emphasized that AfD opposes only illegal immigration, which, he argues, puts undue strain on Germany’s social systems. Legally migrating skilled workers, including Indians, are welcomed and valued in sectors such as IT, nursing, and engineering.
On neo-Nazi associations, Holm clarified that the AfD does not support extremist groups and condemned any associations with them, attributing the connection to unfounded claims by left-leaning media. AfD, he said, supports skilled workers’ migration and pointed to the positive contributions Indian professionals make to Germany’s economy.
Holm also addressed cultural integration for incoming migrants, stating that Germany’s “guiding culture” should be respected by newcomers. While religious freedom is a fundamental right, he suggested that immigrants should integrate into German society and adapt to local values. He acknowledged that German society may appear reserved towards foreigners, especially given Germany’s limited history as a migrant-friendly nation. However, he attributed any xenophobia to Germany’s struggles with managing uncontrolled immigration in recent years.
Holm concluded with a call for economic reforms to enhance Germany’s attractiveness to skilled workers and restore its reputation as a leading industrial nation. He voiced his party’s commitment to policies that encourage lawful immigration, streamline bureaucracy, and improve conditions for both Germans and skilled immigrants who contribute to the nation’s prosperity.
