Celebrating the German Unity Day is a happy occasion. It is a privilege and pleasure for me to address you in its version of the year 2018, celebrated in Pakistan. Much has happened since 28 years ago, on the 3rd of October 1990, Germany peacefully reunited. Since then, this day of joy for all Germans is celebrated as the Day of German Unity.
German presence in Karachi has a very long tradition. And ever since the famous port City of Hamburg opened the first German consulate in Karachi in 1861, Germany has been actively involved in promoting trade between Germany and Sindh.
As a nation of inventors and merchants, Germany greatly values the interaction with other peoples. The Consulate General sees it as one of its foremost objectives to strengthen and enhance our fruitful relationship. With a new government in power on the federal level, we look forward to the new momentum that fresh minds are able to create.
Having recently arrived in Karachi myself, I greatly value the kind and welcoming manner in which I was received. Throughout my tenure, I look forward to meeting many more people and getting ever more acquainted with Pakistan, especially with the two provinces in this consulate's is focus: Sindh and Balochistan.
These two coastal provinces are clearly Pakistan's "window to the world", with Karachi being the financial and economic capital of Pakistan. Working closely with the two provincial governments, the Consulate will engage to enhance Germany's role to the economic development of this part of Pakistan.
The Consulate will equally - together with the Goethe-Institut - aspire to enhance cultural exchange between Germany and Pakistan. To this end, a series of cultural events within the widely known German Weeks will be held, which will kick off in a few days.
Many extraordinarily talented musicians, artists and lecturers will come to Sindh in the coming weeks to showcase their talent and interact with Pakistani partners. We look forward to welcoming many of you at these events. In the happy spirit of German Unity Day, let us try to achieve an ever better future together.