MARDAN: German Ambassador to Pakistan Ina Lepel here on Thursday visited the ancient ruins at Takht Bhai and appreciated the taste and interest of foreign and local visitors, who had been visiting such places even at such a crucial time.

During her visit to the World Heritage Sites at Takht Bhai, she lauded the efforts of government to preserve the historical sites.

Later, the German ambassador also visited Abdul Wali Khan University. She visited different departments, central library and administration block of the university.

She took keen interest in the library where she met the PhD scholars, who have completed research in Germany. On the occasion, Vice-chancellor Dr Ihsan Ali gave her a detailed briefing about the growth and progress of the university. He said that 167 PhDs were working in the university while 87 faculty members were awarded foreign PhD scholarships.

The ambassador assured the vice-chancellor about signing memorandums of understanding in various fields.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkwha Senior Minister Sikandar Sherpao inaugurated the newly constructed building of Darul Aman at Sheikh Maltoon Town Mardan.

He said that provincial government was taking every possible and necessary step for welfare, betterment and empowerment of women.

The ceremony was also attended by German Ambassador to Pakistan Ina Lepel, Social Welfare Secretary Abdul Jabbar Khan, MPA Ubaid Mayar and Deputy Commissioner Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh besides other officials and a large number of women.

The minister lauded the cooperation of German government for development and welfare of women. He thanked German government for provision of goods for renovation and beautification of the building of Darul Aman.

“We are taking practical steps for services of poor and downtrodden people of the province,” said the minister.

He added that the commission, which was established at provincial level for women development, was working fast.

Speaking on the occasion, the German ambassador said that both Pakistan and Germany had been enjoying friendly relations.

She said that the government of Germany would continue assistance for women development and good governance. She said that they believed in development and prosperity of women.

Published in Dawn, April 8th, 2016