Nawaz arrives in Germany for two-day visit

Nawaz says he wants both countries to have closer ties and to increase economic cooperation

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrived at the military airport in Berlin on Monday to conduct his two-day state visit on the invitation of German Chancellor Angela Merkel , Express News reported.

The premier was was received by diplomats and top officials as well as the German army.

"Germany has a lot of potential, they export worldwide. Relations between Germany and Pakistan will be beneficial -- especially for Pakistan," the premier said, while talking to the media after landing.

"We are going to try to open other avenues so that both countries can have closer ties, increase economic cooperation and have German companies invest in Pakistan," said Nawaz.

Prior to his visit to Germany, the prime minister had visited China to sign several MoUs.

"I visited China recently where we signed several agreements. I believe these signings will help Pakistan flourish," he said.

"Dharnas are not the way to go for Pakistan to flourish," the premier said. "Pakistan needs success, not dharnas."

PM urges German businesses to invest in Pakistan

After signing 19 agreements and memorandums with China, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif invited German investors on Monday to invest in Pakistan, Radio Pakistan reported.

The premier who is on a two-day official visit to the country at the invitation of Chancellor Angela Merkel, invited German investors to invest particularly in Pakistan’s energy and agriculture sectors in an interview to a German television.

“There is great scope for investment in agriculture, livestock and forestry in Pakistan. Germany can prove to be an important partner in these sectors,” Nawaz said.

Reiterating Pakistan’s resolve for peace in the region, the prime minister said, “Pakistan wants peace in the region and for this purpose the country is extending maximum possible cooperation to ensure stability in Afghanistan.”

“Elimination of terrorism would serve the interests of both Pakistan and Afghanistan and help strengthen their economies,” he added.

Earlier today, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he wants to build “real and honest cooperation and friendship” during his visit to Islamabad later this week.

Nazifullah Salarzai, the Afghan president’s spokesperson, said the talks between Ghani and Nawaz will focus on bolstering economic ties and security cooperation.

Responding to a question, the prime minister said Operation Zarb-e-Azb , the military offensive launched against militants in North Waziristan is progressing all outfits or groups involved in terrorism will be eliminated.