Thomas E Schultze says Pakistan’s future will be shaped not only by its institutions but also by its women
A picture of German Consul General Thomas E Schultze. — PHOTO HANDOUT
KARACHI:
German Consul General Thomas E Schultze on Thursday congratulated the people of Pakistan on the country’s 79th Independence Day, highlighting the “enduring friendship” between Pakistan and Germany and calling for further strengthening of bilateral ties.
In a message issued on the occasion, Schultze said the Independence Day was an opportunity not only to celebrate Pakistan’s birth but also to honour the “resilience, ambition, and diversity” of its people.
He added that Pakistan and Germany would mark 75 years of diplomatic relations on October 15, describing the milestone as “monumental” in the two countries’ shared history.
🇵🇰’s minorities are an integral &valued part of its rich national fabric. CG Schultze joined the Independence Interfaith Celebration. It was a privilege to meet& engage with inspiring leaders from diverse communities, celebrating unity, inclusion& shared values bring us together pic.twitter.com/aFiJ0MROfd
— German Consulate General Karachi (@GermanyinKHI) August 13, 2026
However, Schultze said, economic cooperation between the two countries went back even further, to 1922, when Siemens opened its first office in Lahore.
“This enduring friendship is built upon three steadfast pillars: reliability, trust, and sustainability,” Schultze said, adding that long-standing and sustainable relations created “true partnerships and mutually beneficial opportunities”.
The consul general said Germany was Pakistan’s largest trading partner and the biggest importer of Pakistani goods within the European Union.
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He stated that around 90 per cent of Pakistan’s exports to the EU benefited from the bloc’s GSP+ scheme and entered the European market duty-free.
Looking ahead, Schultze said Pakistan’s future would be shaped not only by its institutions and businesses but also by its women.
“Across the nation, women are leading, educating, building businesses, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation,” he said.
Schultze, who has been based in Pakistan since last year, also praised the warmth and hospitality of the Pakistani people.
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“Pakistan has been my host country since last year; the warmth, hospitality, and spirit of its wonderful people have earned a truly special place in my heart,” he said.
Expressing gratitude for the relationship between Germany and Pakistan, he said he looked forward to further strengthening bilateral bonds.
“I wish you all a very happy Independence Day. Pakistan Zindabad! Pak-German Dosti Paindabad!” the consul general concluded.
