SIALKOT: Efforts are being made to strengthen the bilateral economic relations between Pakistan and Germany, besides eliminating the hurdles that are hampering the growth of trade.
German Ambassador Ina Lepel stated this while giving an interview to Customs Today, here at Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, adding that being a gateway to European markets, Germany was ready to assist and play its due role for promoting Pakistani exports.
She said that “I personally like Pakistan,” adding that official football for world cup matches was imported from Pakistan as sports products of Sialkot are famous all over the world. On the same lines, Germany wanted to strengthen the economic relations with Pakistan, she said.
Replying to a question, the ambassador said that she was much impressed by the energy of the local business community, which she observed while having a discussion with the traders and businessmen at SCCI. Such kind of dynamism and the initiatives taken by local trader and private companies could serve as a role model for other cities and contribute to unlock the huge economic potential of Pakistan.
Saying that Pakistan held great geographical position on the map of the world, she said that it (Pakistan) on one hand was in the neighbourhood of the two powers i.e. China and Russia, besides having access to the Central Asian States through Afghanistan. It may mention here that these states are land locked states and Pakistan can provide an inter link between the Gulf States, African, European and Central Asian countries.
Almost 200 million human beings lived in Pakistan, which could not be ignored by businessmen, as it is a huge market with rising middle-class strata, she said.
She said the German Embassy contributed to tape the lying potential of Pakistan by working with companies, business associations and the government to facilitate trade and investment. She added that the embassy provided a platform to bring the people of both countries closer to each other.
Ina Lepel also extended her support for the incumbent Pakistani government to continue its efforts for implementing the economic reform agenda: to solve the energy crisis, improve security, promote rule of law, enhance transparency and establish clear rules for trade and investment. Only sustainable implementation of such an agenda will benefit businesses and citizens of the country, she said.
The ambassador also appreciated the exporter of Sialkot, adding that there was an opportunity and time to promote and strengthen the trade relationship between both countries. She also admitted that Sialkot exporters have talent and a unique culture so we should need to remove all hurdles in the way of Pakistani exports. By this Pakistan cannot only explore the German market but also capture the EU markets.
