ISLAMABAD: Germany and Pakistan are looking to expand cooperation in trade, education, development and culture as the two countries mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, German Ambassador Ina Lepel said on Thursday.
Addressing a German Unity Day reception in Islamabad, Ambassador Lepel highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two countries and called for stronger bilateral ties through high-level exchanges and closer people-to-people contacts.
“There is still a lot of work to do in all fields of cooperation, but looking at Germany’s and Pakistan’s enduring friendship, we have a good chance of succeeding,” she said.
The ambassador cited recent exchanges between the two countries’ leaders and foreign ministers as evidence of mutual trust and appreciation. She said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Dr Johann Wadephul had appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote peace in the Gulf region.
She also announced that President Asif Ali Zardari would visit Germany in the near future at the invitation of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The two leaders are expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Highlighting the historical links between the countries, Lepel noted that their friendship predated the establishment of formal diplomatic relations. She referred to Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s stay in Heidelberg, where he completed his thesis.
“Today exactly 75 years ago, diplomatic relations were established between Pakistan and Germany. This is another reason to celebrate today,” she said.
Lepel also reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to European unity and international partnerships, while noting that Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine had placed European security at risk.
On economic and educational cooperation, the ambassador said German-Pakistani industrial and commercial relations continued to expand. Around 13,000 Pakistanis are currently studying at German universities, an increase of 5,000 over the past three years.
Germany has also provided approximately €4 billion in development cooperation to Pakistan since 1961, reflecting the depth and continuity of bilateral engagement.
The anniversary offers an opportunity for both countries to build on their longstanding relationship and explore further collaboration in economic development, education, trade and cultural exchange.
Story by Jamila Achakzai
