ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working closely with the European Union. He highlighted the importance of the GSP+ trade status in boosting exports. The prime minister emphasized mutually beneficial initiatives to enhance trade and investment with the EU.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz welcomed EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis and discussed cooperation in trade, development, security, migration, and climate change. He praised the seventh round of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue held in Brussels in November. The prime minister stressed that the GSP+ scheme is critical for expanding Pakistan’s trade with European markets.
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Ambassador Karoblis expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and assured continued support in strengthening bilateral relations. He mentioned plans for the first-ever EU-Pakistan Business Forum in April. The ambassador also conveyed greetings from EU leadership and reiterated a commitment to promote trade under the GSP+ framework.
Pakistan received GSP+ status in 2014, resulting in a 108 percent increase in textile exports to the EU. The European Parliament extended this status until 2027, reflecting progress in implementing human rights and labor conventions. Pakistan has ratified 27 international conventions, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention Against Torture.
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The EU monitors Pakistan in 13 key areas, including minority rights, freedom of expression, and torture prevention. Last month, the EU acknowledged Pakistan’s progress under the GSP+ framework. Both sides agreed to continue cooperation for trade enhancement and sustainable development.