Message: 35 years of German Unity

Thirty-five years after Germany's reunification, we come together to celebrate not only a defining moment in our nation's history, but also the enduring values that it repre- sents: unity, resilience, and cooperation. These principles remain as relevant today as they were three and a half decades ago, reminding us that even in the face of division and adversity, soci- eties can rise above challenges, heal dif- ferences, and build a shared future grounded in trust, solidarity, and mutual respect. It is this same spirit of collabo- ration and perseverance that underpins the strong and growing relationship be- tween Germany and Pakistan. Since my arrival in Karachi this past August, I have been profoundly struck by the warmth, vitality, and resilience of this remarkable city and its people. Every conversation with government officials, business leaders, and members of civil society has reaffirmed the extraordinary potential of Karachi, a city that drives a substantial part of Pakistan's economic activity and serves as a hub of innova- tion, enterprise, and cultural vibrancy. Germany is proud to be Pakistan's largest trading partner within the Euro- pean Union, with bilateral trade reaching Û3.3 billion in 2023. Our economic coop- eration spans areas in which Pakistan has established global excellence, includ- ing textiles, leather goods, sports equip- ment, and medical instruments. Some German companies have been in Pak- istan for decades creating jobs, improv- ing workplace standards and supporting local communities, the health sector, vo- cational training and sustainability-in- vestments that empower local communi- ties and help build a stronger, more inclusive economy. I truly believe that there are lots of opportunities to further foster this close collaboration by strengthening emerging and high-poten- tial sectors such as renewable energy, digital innovation, sustainable industrial practices, and advanced manufacturing. Realizing this potential depends on fos- tering transparent regulations, pre- dictable policies, and consistent frame- works that enable businesses on both sides to invest with confidence and thrive in a stable, forward- looking envi- ronment. I am confident that by working to- gether, we not only can expand bilateral trade, but also deepen the broader part- nership that connects our nations based on economic, cultural, and human ties. Karachi will remain at the heart of this endeavour, and I warmly invite contin- ued engagement with all stakeholders- business leaders, policymakers, innova- tors, and civil society-who share a vision for a sustainable, prosperous, and mutu- ally beneficial future for both, Germany and Pakistan. Together, I am convinced we can continue building a partnership that reflects the very values of unity, re- silience, and collaboration that we cele- brate today

The author is the Consul General of Germany in Karachi.