Islamabad: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Germany’s Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Svenja Schulze convened in Islamabad on August 21, 2024, to discuss and strengthen economic ties between the two nations, with a specific focus on sustainable business practices and improved labor standards.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting centered on reinforcing the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Germany, particularly in advancing sustainability initiatives within Pakistan’s burgeoning textile industry. Minister Khan highlighted the efforts being made to align Pakistani small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with international labor and environmental standards, such as those outlined in the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.

Minister Schulze praised the robust business connections between the two countries and the presence of successful German enterprises within Pakistan. She emphasized Germany’s commitment to supporting Pakistani initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s roles in the workforce and other socio-economic reforms.

The talks also covered the implementation of the National Compliance Center (NCC) by Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, a pioneering initiative aimed at boosting labor compliance and promoting social responsibility among Pakistani businesses. This center is designed to address various industry concerns through a cluster approach, focusing on human rights, climate change, labor rights, traceability, and quality assurance.

Both ministers agreed on the importance of continuous collaboration and support to further develop and enhance trade and investment links, thereby ensuring that both nations benefit from sustainable and responsible economic practices.