German president meets Zardari, praises Pakistan's 'rising diplomatic profile' in dispute resolution

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari in Berlin on Friday, expressing praise for Pakistan's growing diplomatic reach in addressing regional and global disputes. The two leaders discussed challenges related to Afghanistan, with Zardari emphasizing that Pakistan would not permit terrorists to use Afghan soil to attack its citizens.

Steinmeier commended Pakistan for facilitating the verification of 500 Afghans destined to return to Germany, highlighting the country's humanitarian assistance to millions of Afghans over four decades. Both leaders discussed the Makkah defense pact, co-signed by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia, which aims to ensure regional security and offer an alternative to regional conflicts.

The German president expressed hope for continued collaboration in business, trade, education, and technology. Zardari thanked Steinmeier for his invitation and recognition of Pakistan's role in mediating the conflict between the US and Iran. Both leaders highlighted the potential for expanding political, economic, and defense cooperation between Pakistan and Germany, with a focus on areas like economy, trade, emerging technologies, climate resilience, and skills development.

Zardari expressed admiration for Germany's support for women's empowerment, social protection, and human development, and invited Steinmeier to visit Pakistan. During his visit, Zardari will participate in high-level exchanges and meetings with senior leadership and business leaders, with a focus on economic and trade cooperation.