PM Shehbaz surprises Austrian chancellor with German proficiency
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif surprised Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker with his command of the German language which he spoke during the delegation-level talks between the two leaders.
During his two-day official visit to Austria—the first by a Pakistani prime minister in over three decades— the prime minister addressed the Chancellor in German to express gratitude for the warm hospitality and optimism for deeper bilateral cooperation in the years ahead.
“Mr Chancellor, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your very warm welcome today and I look forward to continuing cooperation in the coming years,” the prime minister said in the German – the national language of Austria.
A remarkable moment in Pakistan’s diplomacy 🇵🇰. PM @CMShehbaz impressed audiences in Vienna by speaking fluent German during his meeting with the Austrian Chancellor. This marks a historic first for a Pakistani Prime Minister on an official foreign visit. Pakistan remains open… pic.twitter.com/JojRkEWQVS
— Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) February 16, 2026
The Austrian chancellor also praised the prime minister’s ability to speak in German, saying he was “surprised” by his proficiency in the language.
This is not the first time the prime minister has demonstrated his multilingual abilities on the international stage. He has previously spoken German, Persian, Russian, and Arabic during various engagements.
What a moment of immense pride in Vienna today. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Pakistan-Austria Business Forum with clarity and conviction, showcasing Pakistan’s vast investment potential and inviting Austrian companies to participate in the upcoming EU-Pakistan… pic.twitter.com/xGyck4nNWF
— Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) February 16, 2026