Islamabad December 9, 2014: German Special Representative on Afghanistan and Pakistan Dr. Michael Koch called on Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq in Parliament House, this morning. German Ambassador Cyrill Nunn also accompanied the Special Envoy.

Various issues of mutual interest including latest developments in Pak-German bilateral parliamentary relations came under discussion. The Speaker said that Germany and Pakistan have a tradition of good and amicable relations and appreciates German support for strengthening of democratic institutions and stable development in Pakistan.

The Speaker and the German envoy underlined the need for exploring possibilities of enhancing cooperation between the two legislatures. The Speaker said that inert-parliamentary diplomacy could contribute towards strengthening of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Germany. Highlighting the investment opportunities in Pakistan, he invited German investment in the country, especially in the field of agriculture, energy, manufacturing and trade sectors.

They also exchanged views on global and regional issues. The Speaker said that Pakistan envisions a peaceful region and a neighborhood. He said that Pakistan would support Afghan initiatives to reinforce its efforts for peace and economic stability. He said that political engagement from either side would bring both the nations more closer. He said that participation of Prime Minister of Pakistan in the Afghanistan Conference recently held in London was a reflection of the importance that Pakistan attaches to international efforts for peace, stability and economic development in Afghanistan.

The Special German Envoy said that his country also attaches immense importance to its relations with Pakistan and wants to further diversify those through active engagement in all sectors. Apprising about the situation in Afghanistan, the Special Representative said that Germany and international community wants a stable and prosperous Afghanistan that would be beneficial for the region. He said that Afghan forces have been capacitated to deal with the law and order after the pull out of international peacekeeping forces from Afghanistan. He said that international community, however, will continue to remain committed to stability in Afghanistan”. He appreciated the positive developments in Pakistan-Afghan relations.