Governor, German envoy discuss matters of mutual interest

LAHORE: Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Pakistan Alfred Grannas Wednesday called on Governor Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman at Governor House.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, promotion of cooperation in education, environment, and trade were discussed.

On the occasion, the governor said Pakistan values its relations with Germany and wants to further expand them in various fields, especially education, environment, technology, energy and trade. He said Pakistani nation lauds the assistance of Germany for flood victims during devastating flash floods that wrecked havoc in Pakistan last year.

He said both the countries need to continue coordinated efforts to tackle challenges of climate change and finalise the climate partnership agreement soon. The governor said we are thankful to Germany for continuous support to Pakistan for GSP plus status and emphasised the need of students exchange programme between Pakistan and Germany. He said the academic exchange programme will strengthen people to people contact between the two countries. The governor said the German government should facilitate the visa process for Pakistani students and businessmen. Condemning the Israeli atrocities on Palestinians, the governor said the international community should play its role in stopping the ongoing persecution of innocent citizens in Gaza. The German Ambassador said Germany will cooperate with Pakistan in combating hazards of climate change. He said Asifa Akhtar of Pakistani origin living in Germany has been awarded the highest scientific research award.

He said the German government is sending humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. He said steps have been taken to resolve the issue of visa delays in the German embassy. The staff has been increased in the embassy to ensure speedy issuance of visas, he added.