ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Pakistan Jean Francois Cautain called on Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday. The minister greeted the ambassador and said that Pakistan regards the EU-membered countries ‘as good friends and excellent trade partners’ because Pakistani exports to the region have been multiplied after acquiring GSP plus status. Dar also said that he hopes that the relationship of Pakistan and the EU will also improve further in future. Cautain appreciated the finance minister’s welcome and said that his stay in the country has been a pleasant experience. Pakistan’s security situation has improved as tourists from all over the world have been showing interest in visiting the country, the ambassador said – highlighting the nation’s ‘great potential’ to enhance tourism. The ambassador also briefed the minister that the EU is preparing to offer an Electoral Reform Package (15 million Euros) to train and assist the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to manage the next elections ‘in the most efficient and transparent manner’. On this, Dar also shared that the Electoral Reforms Committee of the country has also done extensive work with participation from all political parties and wide consultation with the members of the civil society. He assured the ambassador that his support and assistance will be available in all possible ways to strengthen the bilateral relations between Pakistan and the EU.