LAHORE:
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) will expand its operations from 4 districts to 23 districts across the province.
She said that institutions such as WASA and the “Suthra Punjab” sanitation program are improving citizens’ quality of life in every region of Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz made these remarks during a meeting with German Ambassador Anna Lepel, where both sides discussed bilateral relations, support for flood-affected communities, climate change, modern agriculture and green technology, skilled workforce exchange, and advancements in education and training.
Welcoming the German envoy, the chief minister appreciated Germany’s solidarity and swift assistance following recent devastating floods. She emphasized that environmental protection is a top priority for her government and noted that German technical support could prove vital in addressing cross-border challenges such as smog and floods.
Highlighting Germany’s dual vocational training model, Maryam Nawaz welcomed deeper cooperation on this initiative in Punjab. She also praised Germany as a long-standing partner of Pakistan in women’s empowerment, social protection, human development, and green technology.
The chief minister shared that bilateral trade between Pakistan and Germany reached $3.63 billion in 2024, with a positive trade balance for Pakistan. Currently, 40 German companies are operating in Pakistan, generating employment opportunities. She stressed the need to further expand these ties at the provincial level.
The meeting also covered education, Pakistani students studying in Germany, and curriculum innovation.
Maryam Nawaz appreciated the services of the Anna Marie Schimmel House in Lahore and welcomed Germany’s support in promoting sports. She described the recent visit of the German Junior Hockey Team to Lahore as the beginning of sports exchanges.
On the flood situation, the chief minister said that simultaneous high-level flooding in three rivers and continuous rains severely affected Punjab. However, timely evacuation, rescue, and relief operations saved millions of lives.
About 2.2 million livestock were relocated to safer areas, while field hospitals, mobile clinics, and flood relief camps played a crucial role in protecting public health.
Ambassador Anna Lepel also visited the WASA Expo and praised the initiatives showcased there. Shecommended the Punjab government’s exemplary work in rural areas despite severe flooding.
