Federal Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik has called for enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Germany in green entrepreneurship, sustainable innovation and research, saying bilateral ties could be strengthened through joint efforts to develop climate-friendly solutions.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the Day of German Unity, the minister said Pakistan sought to leverage Germany’s innovation ecosystem to foster green startups and develop sustainable solutions with the potential for global application.
“We want to do a startup revolution, all things green, all things sustainable,” he said, emphasising the need to encourage researchers and young innovators to turn their ideas into viable businesses rather than depend solely on grants.
Mr Malik said Pakistan’s vulnerability to environmental challenges, particularly floods, underscored the need for innovative solutions that could address domestic problems while offering opportunities for international expansion.
He expressed optimism that collaboration with German research and innovation institutions would help establish a robust green startup ecosystem in Pakistan, creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and advancing sustainable development.
Describing Germany as one of Pakistan’s closest partners and its largest trading partner, the minister underscored the importance of strengthening economic and trade relations. He said Pakistan was committed to meeting the requirements for retaining its GSP Plus status, adding that the country wanted to demonstrate its compliance with the relevant standards rather than seek concessions.
Reflecting on the significance of German reunification, Mr Malik said the coming together of the two parts of Germany demonstrated the enduring power of popular will, love and solidarity.
“Walls can be raised, but walls can also be shattered, and walls can also be broken,” he said, arguing that unity rooted in mutual respect and shared humanity was more enduring than divisions based on language, culture or religion.
The minister also highlighted historical and cultural links between the two countries, recalling Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s association with Heidelberg and his engagement with the works of German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He expressed appreciation for Germany’s recognition of Iqbal through the naming of a road after the Pakistani philosopher and poet.
He also recalled the humanitarian work of German-born Ruth Pfau, who remained in Pakistan and devoted her life to combating leprosy and serving affected communities, describing her contribution as a testament to the longstanding humanitarian bonds between the two countries.
Conveying greetings on behalf of the prime minister, Mr Malik congratulated Germany on the occasion and commended the peaceful reunification of the country.
Noting that Oct 15 marked the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-Germany relations, he said the milestone offered an opportunity to reaffirm the two countries’ shared commitment to friendship, humanitarian cooperation and sustainability.
The minister expressed hope that closer collaboration in innovation, research and green entrepreneurship would give fresh impetus to bilateral relations and contribute to sustainable development in both countries.
*-*-*-*-*
