LAHORE: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz says that Pakistan and Germany have a longstanding history of cordial bilateral relations and their economic relations are improving by the day while the cooperation of German companies in the sectors like textiles is commendable.

He stated this on Friday during a meeting with a delegation, led by German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Svenja Schulze.

The meeting discussed promotion of economic and trade ties between Punjab and Germany. The meeting discussed issues related to climate change and environmental protection as well.

Ms Maryam expressed her gratitude for the German aid of €91.1m for the flood victims of Punjab as well as the German initiative of providing €24m to Pakistan for sustainable energy. She lauded the cooperation of Germany in clean energy and eco-friendly projects, saying that “eradication of climate change and environmental pollution are among our priorities.”

The CM highlighted a 400pc increase in the budget for environment protection and underscored that “necessary measures are being taken to eliminate smog and other environmental pollution”.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Schulze termed Punjab a preferred province due to the potential of its industry and skilled labour. She added, “The presence and participation of women in the parliament, government offices and other areas of life is commendable.”

German Ambassador in Pakistan Alfred Gunther Granas, senior policy officer Antonia Felicitas Peters, members of German Parliament Kant Gers Chau and Jürgen Kurtz were also included in the visiting German delegation.

Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman and Additional Secretary Sara Hayat were also present.

Published in Dawn, August 24th, 2024