German chancellor calls PM Khan, expresses desire to work with Pakistan

ISLAMABAD - German Chancellor Dr Angela Merkel has expressed the desire to expand cooperation with Pakistan in diverse fields and work together on issues of mutual interest at the regional and global levels.

In a felicitating telephone call to Prime Minister Imran Khan on his election as Prime Minister of Pakistan on Monday, she emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed the desire for further enhancing bilateral relations with Germany into a mutually beneficial, broad-based and long-term partnership.

Imran Khan said Germany is the largest trading partner of Pakistan in Europe and there is 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.

German Chancellor Merkel said Pak-German friendship will further deepen, adding that Germany will continue to support Pakistan in its anti-terrorism efforts, economy and democracy.

She said, “Germany is ready to work with the new government of Imran Khan.”

The German Chancellor was optimistic that Imran Khan will improve relations with neighbours for regional stability.

Chancellor Merkel invited Imran Khan to visit Germany at his earliest convenience. Prime Minister Khan accepted the invitation.