ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Syed Khurshid Shah agreed on Wednesday to proceed with the next National Accountability Bureau chairman’s appointment strictly in accordance with relevant laws. The term of the current chairman of the bureau is set to end in November this year. Earlier, PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi met EU Ambassador Jean-Francois Cautain. The two agreed that relations between Pakistan and the European Union (EU) were based on a commitment to continued engagement. Abbasi said that the EU was one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners and the biggest market for its exports. He mentioned the GSP Plus scheme, saying that it provided a constructive framework for the betterment of Pakistan’s economy and for the promotion of its economic agenda. The prime minister also highlighted Pakistan’s remarkable successes and achievements in the fight against terrorism. The PM said that the government’s National Action Plan (NAP) provided the basis for addressing the challenges of extremism and terrorism in a comprehensive manner. Abbasi also appreciated the role of the Pakistani Diaspora in Europe, which was contributing towards progress and development of their adopted countries. Cautain highlighted the strong and longstanding partnership between the European Union and Pakistan. He reiterated the EU’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation towards the development of Pakistan. Published in Daily Times, September 14th 2017.