Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for further strengthening Pakistan-Germany relations, focusing on areas such as trade, investment, development cooperation, defence, skilled labour mobility, and business-to-business engagement.

According to Press Information Department, President Zardari expressed these views during a meeting with the Ambassador-designate of Pakistan to Germany, Salman Sharif, at Aiwan-e-Sadr. He highlighted the importance of longstanding relations with Germany and anticipated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026 as an opportunity to deepen cooperation. The President stressed the necessity of increasing bilateral trade, noting Germany as the largest EU destination for Pakistani exports. Additionally, he emphasized continued defence collaboration and enhanced skilled labour mobility.

Recalling Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s invitation to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, President Zardari expressed hope for a visit at a mutually convenient date. He congratulated Salman Sharif on his new role and expressed confidence in his ability to strengthen Pakistan-Germany relations. Senators Sherry Rehman, Saleem Mandviwalla, and former Federal Minister Syed Naveed Qamar were present during the meeting.