“We are thrilled to welcome our new Ambassador-designate Ina Lepel to Pakistan. It is her third time to serve in this beautiful country…”
With this message shared on social media, German Embassy in Islamabad announced the arrival of Ina Ruth Luise Lepel. She is a familiar and respected name in Pakistan’s diplomatic circles. Her appointment as Germany’s Ambassador is not simply a return but a continuation of a long and evolving partnership that stretches back over half a century.
For Pakistan, her presence signals both familiarity and a renewed opportunity to strengthen ties with one of Europe’s most influential nations. She first came to Islamabad in 2007 as Deputy Head of Mission and returned in 2015 to serve as Germany’s Ambassador.
During those years, she built a reputation for not only her grasp of regional politics but also her ability to engage with Pakistani institutions and communities at multiple levels. She invested in cultural and educational exchanges. She also praised Pakistan’s heritage sites and worked with local scholars to promote academic collaborations. She also championed Germany’s support in renewable energy and vocational training, sectors that remain deeply relevant to Pakistan’s current needs.
Her last tenure coincided with a period of major transition in Pakistan, when the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was beginning to take shape. At that time, she encouraged German businesses to explore investment opportunities in energy, infrastructure, and technology by recognizing Pakistan’s potential as a regional hub.
She often spoke about the need to correct Pakistan’s energy imbalance and urged the development of sustainable power solutions while appreciating the country’s vast natural resources. Under her watch, Germany’s development agencies, particularly GIZ and KfW, deepened their work in energy efficiency, vocational training, and governance reforms.
Now, in 2025, her return comes at a moment when Pakistan is navigating complex challenges: economic recovery, climate change, and a shifting regional order.
The country’s search for sustainable solutions and resilient growth finds a natural partner in Germany, which has already supported Pakistan’s renewable energy sector, afforestation projects, and technical education programs. Lepel’s past efforts in these fields give her a strong foundation to build upon.
Today, I was honoured to hand over my credentials to H. E. the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 🇵🇰 Asif Ali Zardari. My goal during my tenure will be to strengthen Pak-German friendship & cooperation. #PakGermanDosti Zindabad! 🇩🇪🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/jZMRu15BT6
— Ina Lepel (@GermanyinPAK) August 22, 2025
Observers in Islamabad expect her to focus on advancing green energy partnerships, expanding trade in high-value sectors, and enhancing cultural exchange programs that bring Pakistani voices and creativity to European audiences.
What makes her appointment particularly significant is her rare distinction of serving twice as ambassador to the same country. This is more than a diplomatic formality as it reflects Berlin’s recognition of Pakistan’s importance in South Asia and of Lepel’s proven ability to foster meaningful cooperation here.
Her presence also aligns with Pakistan’s evolving priorities. As the country looks to modernize its industries, expand digital opportunities, and confront the realities of climate vulnerability, Germany stands out as a partner with the technology, expertise, and experience to make collaboration transformative. With Ina Lepel back in Islamabad, that collaboration gains a trusted face and a steady hand.
Noor ul Sabah
Noor ul Sabah is a feminist researcher focused on intersectional approaches to gender, technology, and governance. Her work explores how power and identity shape experiences of violence, migration, and citizenship.
