Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly meets German Parliament member Christoph Schmid to discuss economic cooperation, regional situation, and parliamentary links.

Islamabad (Izhhar Khan Niazi) – Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah met with German Parliament member Christoph Schmid at the Parliament House in Islamabad. The meeting involved detailed discussions on bilateral relations between Pakistan and Germany, parliamentary links, economic cooperation, and important regional issues. Special Secretary for Special Measures Syed Shamon Hashmi was also present on this occasion. The Deputy Speaker welcomed the German parliament member, stating that Pakistan places great importance on its longstanding and friendly relations with Germany. The relationship between the two countries is based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation in various fields, with ample opportunities for further expansion. Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah noted that in the past, there had been ongoing exchanges and interactions between parliamentary delegations and members of both countries; however, this had decreased after the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to reactivate and make the links between the parliaments of both countries more effective, as parliamentary diplomacy can play a significant role in further stabilizing bilateral relations. He described the visit of the then Speaker of the German Bundestag, Professor Dr. Norbert Lammert, to Pakistan in 2014 as a significant milestone in the parliamentary relations between the two countries, stating that meetings and discussions with Pakistani personalities during this visit enhanced mutual ties. The Deputy Speaker also appreciated Germany’s humanitarian assistance to Pakistan during the devastating floods of 2010, noting that Germany’s support during natural disasters and regional challenges is commendable. He mentioned the vast investment opportunities in various economic sectors, including tourism, highlighting Pakistan’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and geographical and cultural diversity, and encouraged German investors and the business community to take advantage of the opportunities available in Pakistan. German Parliament member Christoph Schmid thanked the Deputy Speaker for the warm welcome and hospitality. Both leaders agreed that enhancing parliamentary and public-level links could give new dimensions to bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Germany. Christoph Schmid praised Pakistan’s positive and constructive role in promoting peace, dialogue, and reducing tensions in the region, commending Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts in the context of recent tensions in the Middle East. He stated that Pakistan’s efforts to promote negotiations and contacts among various parties have received international recognition. The German parliament member emphasized that Pakistan’s role is crucial for establishing peace, resolving conflicts peacefully, and promoting dialogue among different parties. Both leaders expressed their commitment to finding new opportunities to further enhance parliamentary diplomacy, economic cooperation, and public relations.