Zardari seeks stronger Pakistan-German ties during Berlin visit

President Asif Ali Zardari has called for expanding cooperation between Pakistan and Germany across trade, investment, technology, education and defence, stressing the need to transform longstanding friendly relations into a stronger and mutually beneficial partnership.

He made the remarks during a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin on Friday. According to a statement from the President’s Office, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional security and opportunities to strengthen economic and diplomatic cooperation.

President Zardari is visiting Germany from October 22 to 24 at the invitation of President Steinmeier. The visit marks the first by a Pakistani president to Germany in 23 years and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

During the meeting, Zardari expressed gratitude for the invitation and the hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He said Pakistan was committed to strengthening its relationship with Germany through sustained engagement and practical cooperation in areas of shared interest.

The president emphasised the need to expand political, economic and defence ties, highlighting trade, emerging technologies, climate resilience, skills development and cultural exchanges as key areas for collaboration.

He said Pakistan valued Germany as an important European partner and appreciated its support for women’s empowerment, social protection and human development.

Zardari also called for broader cooperation in scientific research, healthcare, education, vocational training, agriculture, commerce, industry and investment. He stressed that stronger links between governments, businesses and experts could help translate existing opportunities into tangible benefits for both countries.

President Steinmeier welcomed Zardari’s visit, describing it as an opportunity to deepen bilateral engagement during the anniversary year. He expressed hope that both countries would strengthen commercial relations and expand cooperation in education and technology.

The German president also acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to address international disputes and promote regional stability.

Zardari thanked Germany for recognising Pakistan’s mediation efforts in the conflict involving the United States and Iran. He reiterated Islamabad’s position that disputes should be resolved through sustained dialogue and constructive negotiations to promote regional and global peace.

The two leaders also discussed developments in Afghanistan and related security challenges. Zardari said Pakistan had no conflict with the Afghan people but would not permit terrorist groups to use Afghan territory to attack Pakistani citizens or violate the country’s sovereignty.

Steinmeier also acknowledged Pakistan’s assistance in verifying 500 Afghan nationals scheduled for repatriation to Germany. He recognised Pakistan’s humanitarian support for millions of Afghans over more than four decades.

The discussions further covered the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. Responding to Steinmeier’s interest in the arrangement, Zardari said the pact was intended to strengthen regional security and offer a framework for preventing conflicts. He emphasised that it was not directed against any particular country.

Steinmeier also conveyed condolences over the deaths of children in a recent school roof collapse in Peshawar.

As part of the visit, Zardari was accorded a guard of honour at the German Ministry of Defence before meeting his German counterpart. The formal reception included the national anthems of both countries, followed by a one-on-one meeting and delegation-level talks.

The Pakistani delegation included Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, provincial ministers Sharjeel Memon and Jam Khan Shoro, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Germany Salman Sharif.

Zardari also invited Steinmeier to visit Pakistan. The German president said he would consider the invitation and explore the possibility of travelling to Pakistan at an appropriate time.