ISLAMABAD, APR 18, (DNA) – The Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz received a delegation of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today. The multi-party delegation, comprising eight MEPs was led by Mr. David McAllister-who is the Chair of the Committee, and included Mr. Arnaud Danjean, Mr. ŽeljanaZovko, Ms. Neena Gill, Mr. AndrejsMamikins, Mr. JozoRadoš, Mr. Amjad Bashir and Ms. Jean Lambert.

The Adviser, welcoming the delegation, expressed satisfaction at the positive growth in the overall Pakistan-EU relations. He underscored the significant progress made by Pakistan during the last four years particularly in the areas of democratic consolidation, counterterrorism and economic development. He also briefed the MEPs about the evolving regional geo-politics and explained Pakistan’s approach towards promoting regional stability and prosperity through connectivity. He also highlighted the grave violations of human rights in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, especially since July 2016.

The AFET delegation acknowledged important progress made by Pakistan in the recent years including in counterterrorism, human rights and economic revival.

Both sides exchanged views on important regional and global issues and stressed on the need for enhanced parliamentary exchanges for generating greater understanding on issues of mutual interest.

The delegation is visiting Pakistan from 17 to 21 April 2017 and will also visit Lahore and Peshawar.