Germany invested €3.8 billion in Pakistan through govt programmes, says Consul General Thomas Schultz

The Pakistan Eye Bank Society (PEBS), in collaboration with the Rotary Club Heidelberg Schloss, officially launched Phase II of the School Eye Clinic Project, reaffirming the strong humanitarian partnership between Pakistan and Germany in promoting children's eye health.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Pakistan Eye Bank Society Hospital in Karachi, German Consul General Thomas E. Schultz highlighted Germany's longstanding commitment to Pakistan's development.

"Through government programmes, Germany has invested €3.8 billion (approximately US$4.3 billion) in Pakistan. We remain committed to strengthening our cooperation with Pakistan, particularly through initiatives that improve people's lives," he said.

The School Eye Clinic Project aims to ensure the early detection and treatment of vision problems among schoolchildren. During Phase I, eye screenings of 60,000 schoolchildren were successfully completed. Under Phase II, the project targets screening 120,000 children over the next 12 months, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment of vision-related issues.

Consul General Schultz said the School Eye Clinic Project would continue to expand in the coming years, noting that childhood vision problems in Karachi remain a serious concern. He praised the Pakistan Eye Bank Society for its dedicated efforts to improve children's eyesight and described the initiative as a reflection of compassion, commitment, and international cooperation.

He emphasised that medical expertise and global partnerships are essential to addressing public health challenges and paid tribute to Dr Ruth Pfau, describing her as an enduring source of inspiration whose humanitarian legacy continues to guide efforts to serve vulnerable communities.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Pakistan Eye Bank Society, Rotary Club Heidelberg Schloss, medical professionals, diplomats, and distinguished guests, who reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Germany cooperation in healthcare and humanitarian initiatives.