Karachi: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has welcomed the newly-appointed Consul General of Germany, Thomas Eberhard Schultze, in Karachi, who has pledged to prioritize business visas for Pakistani citizens as part of strengthening economic relations between the two countries.

Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, highlighted the potential for collaboration, emphasizing Pakistan’s renowned textile industry and urging Germany to facilitate market access through trade fairs and exhibitions.

Consul General Schultze, during his visit to the FPCCI Head Office, acknowledged Pakistan as a significant market for German companies, citing the country’s large middle class with substantial purchasing power. He noted the historic presence of German businesses in the region, dating back over a century, and expressed optimism over the recent increase in Pakistani visa applicants.

Schultze emphasized the need for collective efforts to enhance bilateral trade, investments, joint ventures, and industrial collaborations, given Pakistan’s strategic geoeconomic position.

Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President of FPCCI, extended an invitation to German business communities to partake in Pakistan’s growth, aligning with FPCCI’s Vision 2030, which aims for $100 billion in annual exports. Magoon identified key areas for business-to-business cooperation, including startups, R and D, women empowerment, vocational training, and business tourism.

In a move to bolster trade relations, the German Consulate appointed Sahibzadi Mahin Khan as their focal person for trade and investment in Sindh and Balochistan, recognizing her contributions to women empowerment initiatives.

Hanif Gohar, Chairman of FPCCI’s Central Standing Committee on Diplomatic Affairs, advocated for the issuance of long-term visas to Pakistani business professionals, underscoring the potential for enhanced private-sector partnerships. He also highlighted Pakistan’s young, skilled workforce as an asset for various German industries.

The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to fostering robust economic ties and collaborative opportunities between Pakistan and Germany.