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German Consul General Thomas E Schultze has congratulated the people of Pakistan on the country\u2019s 79th Independence Day, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Germany.<\/strong><\/p>\n In a video message marking the occasion, Schultze praised the resilience, ambition and diversity of the Pakistani people, saying the day was an opportunity to reflect on the country\u2019s journey since independence.<\/p>\n The German consul general also highlighted a major milestone in bilateral relations, with Pakistan and Germany set to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties on 15 October.<\/p>\n He said economic cooperation between the two countries went back even further, noting that German company Siemens opened its first office in Lahore in 1922.<\/p>\n According to Schultze, the relationship between the two countries is based on three key principles: \u201creliability, trust and sustainability\u201d.<\/p>\n He said Germany was Pakistan\u2019s largest trading partner in Europe and the biggest importer of Pakistani goods within the European Union.<\/p>\n Schultze also pointed to the role of the EU\u2019s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) arrangement, saying about 90 percent of Pakistan\u2019s exports to the EU benefited from the scheme and entered the bloc duty-free.<\/p>\n Looking to Pakistan\u2019s future, the German diplomat stressed the importance of women\u2019s participation in the country\u2019s development.<\/p>\n He said women across Pakistan were playing an increasingly important role in education, business and leadership, while creating opportunities and inspiring younger generations.<\/p>\n Schultze, who has been based in Pakistan since last year, said the warmth and hospitality of the Pakistani people had given the country a \u201ctruly special place\u201d in his heart.<\/p>\n He expressed gratitude for the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Germany and said he looked forward to strengthening bilateral ties further.<\/p>\n The message ended with Independence Day greetings to Pakistan and the words: \u201cPakistan Zindabad! Pak-German Dosti Paindabad!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n