Pakistan, EU reaffirm commitment to strengthen cooperation

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan and the European Union have reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation under the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan, with both sides agreeing to continue working towards deeper engagement in areas of mutual interest.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the progress in Pakistan-EU relations and discussed ways to further enhance cooperation through sustained diplomatic engagement and stronger institutional ties.

Kaja Kallas warmly recalled her recent official visit to Islamabad for the 8th round of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue, highlighting the importance of continued high-level interactions in strengthening the partnership between the two sides.

The leaders also exchanged views on key regional and international developments and emphasized that diplomacy remains the most effective and lasting approach for resolving conflicts and ensuring peace and stability, particularly in the backdrop of the evolving US-Iran situation.

They discussed the broader consequences of regional developments on global security, energy markets, maritime security, trade flows, and international supply chains.

Both sides stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to international law to address emerging challenges.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the implementation of all international conventions and obligations associated with the GSP Plus framework.

He highlighted that Pakistan attaches great importance to its economic partnership with the European Union and seeks to further expand trade and economic cooperation.

The meeting reflected the shared desire of Pakistan and the European Union to maintain constructive engagement and build a stronger partnership based on mutual interests, economic cooperation, and regional stability.