A delegation from the German Press Association in Hamburg has visited the National Press Club (NPC) in Islamabad to discuss opportunities for closer cooperation between journalists in Pakistan and Germany. The meeting focused on professional networking, knowledge-sharing, journalist training and the changing challenges facing the media industry in both countries. The visit brought together representatives of German journalism and media development organisations with the leadership of the National Press Club, providing an opportunity to explore ways to encourage professional exchanges and strengthen relationships between the two journalistic communities.
The delegation included Marina Friedt, Chairperson of the German Press Association in Hamburg, which is affiliated with the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), Berlin-based journalist Moritz Lohmann, and Abdullah Dayo, Programme Advisor at Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Pakistan. National Press Club Islamabad Secretary Dr Furqan Rao welcomed the visitors and briefed them on the club’s activities, facilities and role in supporting the professional interests of journalists. The delegation also toured the premises to learn more about the organisation’s work and its position as a meeting point for journalists and media professionals in Pakistan’s capital.
During the meeting, participants exchanged views on journalism practices and the evolving issues confronting media professionals in Pakistan and Germany. Discussions explored how stronger professional links could support the exchange of expertise, facilitate collaboration and create opportunities for journalists to learn from one another’s experiences. The participants also considered the importance of capacity-building programmes and professional exchanges in helping journalists respond to changing demands within the media industry. Such initiatives can provide opportunities to share reporting practices, discuss professional standards and develop a better understanding of the working environments in both countries. No specific training schedule or formal cooperation agreement was announced during the visit.
Both sides expressed their interest in expanding future engagement through training programmes, journalist exchanges and continued knowledge-sharing. The discussions also highlighted the value of international dialogue in addressing emerging challenges in journalism and maintaining professional connections across borders. The visit forms part of wider efforts to build cooperation between media communities in Pakistan and Germany, with the National Press Club providing a platform for engagement with international journalism organisations. Any future initiatives will depend on follow-up discussions and the development of practical programmes that allow journalists from both countries to participate in exchanges and training activities. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to exploring opportunities for continued professional cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries’ media communities.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
