BERLIN: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for expanding Pakistan-Germany cooperation across political, economic and defence sectors, emphasizing trade, emerging technologies, climate resilience, skills development and cultural exchanges to build a stronger and mutually beneficial partnership.
Speaking during a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin, President Zardari said Pakistan was committed to strengthening longstanding friendly relations with Germany and translating existing ties into a more robust partnership through sustained engagement.
The visit comes as Pakistan and Germany mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. Zardari noted that his visit, taking place after 23 years, marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations.
The president described Germany as an important European partner and appreciated its support for women’s empowerment, social protection and human development.
He stressed the need to explore new avenues of cooperation in scientific development, healthcare, education, vocational training, technology, trade, investment, agriculture, commerce, industry and climate resilience. He called for stronger government-to-government, business-to-business and expert-level exchanges.
President Zardari also thanked Germany for acknowledging Pakistan’s mediation efforts in the US-Iran conflict, reiterating Islamabad’s position that sustained dialogue and constructive negotiations are essential for regional and global peace and stability.
President Steinmeier warmly welcomed Zardari and expressed hope that the two countries would intensify cooperation in trade, business, education and technology. He also conveyed condolences over the recent deaths of children in a school roof collapse in Peshawar.
The German president praised Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role in addressing regional and international disputes. He also appreciated Islamabad’s assistance in facilitating the verification of 500 Afghans scheduled for repatriation to Germany, as well as Pakistan’s humanitarian support for millions of Afghans over the past four decades.
The two leaders also discussed challenges related to Afghanistan. President Zardari said Pakistan had no conflict with the Afghan people but would not allow terrorist groups to use Afghan territory to attack Pakistani citizens or violate the country’s sovereignty.
Responding to Steinmeier’s interest in the Makkah Defence Pact, Zardari said the agreement aimed to strengthen regional security and provide an alternative to regional conflicts, emphasizing that it was not directed against any specific country.