Sherry Rehman Hails 100 Years of Friedrich Ebert Foundation and 35 Years of FES Pakistan: “Democracy Needs Its Champions
Islamabad : Senator Sherry Rehman addressed a ceremony marking 100 years of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) and 35 years of FES in Pakistan, paying tribute to the organization’s enduring commitment to democracy, social justice, and dialogue.
Friedrich Ebert’s message remains alive today: democracy does not sustain itself; it needs democrats to uphold it,” said Senator Rehman. “For a century, the FES has played an exemplary role in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting social justice, and fostering constructive dialogue around the world.”
She highlighted that in Pakistan, FES has significantly contributed to empowering democratic institutions, advancing women’s rights, engaging youth, and promoting transparent governance. “We salute FES Pakistan for its 35-year journey of dedication and partnership,” she said.
Senator Rehman recalled that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto sacrificed her life for democracy and the people’s right to choose, adding that her vision continues to guide Pakistan’s democratic struggle. “The bonds between the Pakistan People’s Party and Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) date back to the era of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Willy Brandt, rooted in shared values of justice, equality, and respect for human dignity. This friendship has only grown stronger with time.”
Discussing regional peace and security, Senator Rehman noted that both Pakistan and Germany understand that the survival of democracy depends on peace and stability. “Pakistan has fought terrorism and extremism with unparalleled courage and sacrifice,” she said. She also warned that **India’s illegal actions and arms buildup have destabilized the regional balance, emphasizing that “Pakistan’s response after the Pahalgam attack was responsible and restrained, unlike India’s provocative and irresponsible conduct.
“Such war rhetoric and unilateralism threaten regional peace, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of millions,” she cautioned. “Pakistan continues to seek a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.”
Senator Rehman lauded Germany’s principled and effective voice for international law and human rights, and highlighted Pakistan’s completion of the FATF Action Plan** as evidence of its commitment to transparency, reform, and global responsibility.
“Pakistan and Germany share a relationship based on mutual trust and cooperation. We are close partners in trade, education, development, and renewable energy,” she noted. “Thousands of Pakistani students are studying in Germany, returning home with valuable knowledge and experience to serve their country.”
Looking ahead, Senator Rehman announced that next year will mark 75 years of Pakistan-Germany diplomatic relations, describing it as “an opportunity not only to celebrate past achievements but also to launch new partnerships for the future.”
“Pakistan will continue to play its part in building a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive world,” she affirmed. “Democracy is not merely a system — it is the courage, compassion, and service of citizens. This is the message that connects Friedrich Ebert, Allama Iqbal, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and Benazir Bhutto.”
“The friendship between Pakistan and Germany will endure — grounded in shared ideals and a collective commitment to progress and peace,” concluded Senator Sherry Rehman.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
