German envoy for stronger economic ties with Pakistan

German Ambassador Ina Lepel urged stronger economic links between Pakistan and Germany while speaking at the Pakistan Textile Exporters Association in Faisalabad on Monday. According to Business Recorder, she pointed to scope for broader trade, higher investment and closer ties between companies in the two countries. Lepel acknowledged better infrastructure and some economic indicators in Pakistan, yet said structural problems still hold back trade and investment.

She said German firms are looking to diversify supply chains and form new global partnerships, which opens doors for countries like Pakistan. German technical assistance is shifting toward green practices, circular production and labour standards, with GIZ working across several sectors. A newly created Pakistan Desk at the German Emirati Joint Council for Commerce and Industry is meant to connect German companies with Pakistani markets.

PTEA chairman Rehan Naseem Bharara marked 75 years of diplomatic ties and noted that Germany ranks first among EU countries as Pakistan's trading partner. Last year the two sides traded over USD 4.23 billion, and he said a large share of the potential remains unused. He said deeper business ties could move the relationship closer to a target of USD 10 billion in trade. Former chairman Khurram Mukhtar also said the body is pushing traceability and circular economy methods while educating members on Green Button rules.