ISLAMABAD – Germany and Pakistan have agreed to enhance cooperation in economic, trade and investment fields and to initiate a strategic dialogue to boost bilateral ties, said a joint statement issued here by the foreign office on Monday.
These developments were result of Germany’s Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle’s visit to Pakistan on January 8th and 9th.
Westerwelle held meetings with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani during his trip.
The Foreign Office statement said the prime minister and the foreign minister expressed appreciation for assistance extended by German government and people for the victims of last summer floods.
“Westerwelle has expressed solidarity with the government and people of Pakistan and that Germany views its relationship with Pakistan on a sustained and long-term basis”, it added.
“In pursuance of the understanding reached during the visit of Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani to Germany in 2009, both sides had agreed to initiate a strategic dialogue to intensify bilateral relations,” the statement said.
Referring to the reported remarks of Chancellor Angela Merkel about Pakistan, Foreign Minister Westerwelle has clarified that the remarks were ‘misinterpreted’ and that Germany appreciates Pakistan’s contribution and cooperation in promoting stability in Afghanistan.
According to statement, “A large number of Pakistani companies participate in exhibitions held in Germany. And Foreign Minister Westerwelle has expressed support for greater access for Pakistani products in the EU markets including through GSP+,” it said.
“As regards development assistance, Foreign Minister Westerwelle conveyed that Germany would continue to contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of Pakistan. The two sides also agreed to increasing cooperation in higher education and science and technology”, the statement said.
