German Envoy Calls for Climate Neutrality by 2045, Stresses Strong Pakistan–Germany Academic Ties

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: German Ambassador to Pakistan Ina Lepel has reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2045, while highlighting youth development, global peace, and stronger academic cooperation with Pakistan.
She made these remarks during a special interactive session held at the University of the Punjab Institute of Administrative Sciences, where she addressed faculty members, students, and alumni of German universities.
The event was attended by Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, Director External Linkages Prof Dr Yaamina Salman, Director Institute of Administrative Sciences Prof Dr Kashif Rathore, along with a large number of students and faculty members.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Lepel said Germany is actively working to improve the global environment and has set a national target of becoming climate neutral by 2045. She noted a rapid transition toward renewable energy sources and increasing adoption of electric vehicles due to rising fuel costs.
She also highlighted the importance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, stating that the world must evaluate how AI can contribute to development and sustainability. She emphasized Germany’s focus on green technology, renewable energy, and climate resilience.
On global affairs, she expressed concern over ongoing geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East, the Russia–Ukraine war, and US–Iran relations, stating that global peace remains fragile. She stressed that dialogue is the only sustainable path toward resolving international disputes.
The ambassador said both strong economic systems and robust defense capabilities are essential for national stability, along with strong institutions to address modern challenges. She also noted Germany’s role in strengthening European strategic autonomy and described the European Union as the world’s largest trade bloc.
Commending administrative reforms, she stressed the need to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for effective governance and development.
Regarding Pakistan–Germany relations, she appreciated Pakistan’s engagement at international forums, including the United Nations. She also shared that German Chancellor recently held a phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss regional tensions, reflecting continued diplomatic engagement.
She revealed that around 10,000 Pakistani students are currently studying in Germany, while the German Academic Exchange Service is providing scholarships to hundreds of Pakistani students annually. She added that Pakistan, as the fifth most populous country in the world, is an important trade partner for Germany.
Responding to students’ questions, Ambassador Lepel advised aspiring diplomats to develop listening skills, cultural understanding, patience, and emotional control, stating: “A good diplomat is one who understands before reacting.”
Earlier, she also met Prof Dr Muhammad Ali at the Vice Chancellor’s office. The Vice Chancellor emphasized expanding joint research, faculty exchange, and academic collaboration between Pakistani and German universities, reaffirming Punjab University’s commitment to strengthening international academic linkages.