ISLAMABAD, DEC 06 (DNA) – The Foreign Minister stated that Pakistan greatly valued its relations with the European Union, which are based on shared commitment to peace and development.

The Foreign Minister added that Pakistan and EU enjoyed cordial and broad based partnership aimed at achieving peace, progress and prosperity for its people.

This relationship is pursued through sound institutional mechanisms and dialogue processes. The two sides elevated their relationship by signing the Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) in June 2019. SEP is a forward looking and comprehensive framework of cooperation in diverse areas of mutual interest.

The Foreign Minister extended felicitations to the new EU leadership. He expressed Pakistan’s commitment to work with the new leadership and EU member states to advance shared goals and interests.

Foreign Minister Qureshi appreciated the grant of GSP Plus status to Pakistan in December 2013. He highlighted the increase of trade after grant of GSP Plus Status.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted the positive outlook of Pakistan’s economy and its recognition by the World Bank (Ease of Doing Business) and Moody’s. He added that this positive economic outlook of Pakistan offered huge opportunities for enhanced trade, investments, tourism and so on.

The Foreign Minister also briefed the EU Ambassadors on regional situation, including Pakistan’s support to the efforts for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. He also highlighted the Prime Minister’s initiative for defusion of tensions in the Middle East and resolution of disputes and differences through diplomatic means.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted atrocities being perpetrated by the Indian Occupation Forces in the Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir. He urged the international community to impress upon India to lift the inhumane restrictions and to ameliorate the sufferings of the people of IOJ&K.

The EU Ambassadors appreciated the initiative which provided an opportunity to discuss areas of mutual interest. The importance of closer engagement on Pakistan-EU relations and regional and international issues was underscored.