Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar held important meetings with Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Teresa Ribeiro and Vice President of Parliamentary Committee for Foreign Affairs and Portuguese Communities Pedro Filipe Soares.
Both the leaders have assured to support Pakistan for extension in GSP-Plus status. According to a communiqué issued by Governor House, Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar during his visit to Europe met with Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Teresa Ribeiro and Vice President of Parliamentary Committee for Foreign Affairs and Portuguese Communities Pedro Filipe Soares. Matters pertaining to extension in GSP-Plus status to Pakistan, Kashmir issue, Indian war hysteria, peace in Afghanistan, Pak-Portugal relations, trade, tourism and other issues were discussed.
Military Secretary to Governor Punjab Col Mohsin Raja and Board of Revenue Punjab’s Senior Member Babar Hayat Tarar also accompanied the Governor. Governor said that Teresa Ribeiro and Pedro Filipe Soares have not only lauded the sacrifices rendered by Pakistan’s government, armed forces and the people in the war against terrorism and for the cause of peace but also assured him of their full cooperation.
After the meetings, Punjab Governor said that meetings with Teresa Ribeiro and Pedro Filipe Soares were held in a very cordial manner and these were successful meetings by all aspects. “I am also holding meeting with members of European Parliament and Pakistan will succeed with regard to extension in GSP-Plus status,” Governor said. Pakistan has obtained benefits worth more than 15 billion dollars from GSP-Plus during five years, and GSP-Plus will benefit the country and strengthen its economy in future as well. Portuguese investors and business community are keen on investing in the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Sarwar said that he also apprised the Portuguese authorities about the measures taken by Pakistan under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan for establishment of peace and elimination of terrorism despite India’s war hysteria and the situation created due to Kashmir issue. He also urged European Union to play its role in lifting of curfew and stoppage of Indian aggression in occupied Kashmir, adding that settlement of Kashmir issue has become indispensable for regional peace and stability. There is no doubt in it that entire world community including Portuguese authorities is all praised of Pakistan’s endeavours for peace.
During the meeting with Portuguese leader, he said, promotion of religious tourism and other tourist places were also discussed. Tourists are being provided complete security and other facilities in Pakistan where total peace prevails in the country.