Pakistan and the European Parliament have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnership under the GSP+ framework, with a focus on trade, investment, human rights, and sustainable development.
A high-level delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on Development visited the Ministry of Commerce in Islamabad on Monday, where Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held a detailed meeting with the delegation.
During the meeting, both sides discussed avenues to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, and human rights, emphasizing the importance of transparency and sustainable growth in Pakistan-EU relations.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan underscored that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the European Union, highlighting the country’s ongoing reforms and progress in key areas including labor rights, climate action, and social protection.
He informed the delegation about Pakistan’s achievements, noting that the country’s election to the UN Human Rights Council for 2026-2028 reflects international confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to human rights.
He also mentioned that the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has attained ‘A-status’ accreditation, a recognition of Pakistan’s progress in institutional reforms.
The Minister highlighted significant legislative developments, including the Islamabad Child Marriage Restraint Act 2025, as well as new laws for journalists’ protection and promotion of interfaith harmony.
Discussing the economic landscape, Jam Kamal Khan noted that the policy interest rate has been reduced from 22% to 11%, signaling stability and recovery in Pakistan’s economy.
He emphasized that the country’s future lies in industrial expansion and skilled human resources, adding that 60% of Pakistan’s population is under 30, making vocational and technical training a top government priority.
Inviting European investors, the Minister encouraged enhanced investments in agriculture, food processing, industry, and e-commerce sectors.
He also raised key trade issues, including the withdrawal of duty concessions on ethanol exports and the geographical indication (GI) dispute over Basmati rice, urging the EU for a fair and equitable resolution to protect Pakistan’s rural economy.
The Minister further sought EU cooperation on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and other environmental regulations to ensure a balanced transition toward green trade practices.
Members of the European Parliament praised Pakistan’s transparency, reforms, and commitment to human capital development, acknowledging the government’s efforts in advancing good governance and sustainable progress.
Both sides also exchanged views on global peace, education, and economic collaboration.
The visiting delegation commended Pakistan’s hospitality and expressed appreciation for its constructive and forward-looking engagement.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to deepen cooperation for enhanced trade and sustainable development under the GSP+ framework.