German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday emphasised the importance of deepening bilateral relations between Germany and Pakistan in a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Imran Khan.
She expressed desire to expand cooperation in diverse fields and work together on issues of mutual interest at the regional and global levels.
The chancellor congratulated Imran Khan on his election as the prime minister of Pakistan. Prime Minister Imran Khan thanked the German chancellor for her call. He expressed the desire for further enhancing bilateral relations with Germany into a mutually beneficial, broad-based and long-term partnership. He said Germany was the largest trading partner of Pakistan in Europe and there was a substantial potential for cooperation in the spheres of energy and automobile sectors, and investment in hydroelectric power generation. The prime minister also briefed the German chancellor on the regional situation, especially the importance of a peaceful settlement in Afghanistan and relations with India. He underscored the need for resumption of comprehensive dialogue with India to address all outstanding issues.
Merkel also invited Imran Khan to visit Germany at his earliest convenience, which was accepted by the latter.
Published in Daily Times, October 2nd, 2018.
