GSP+ remains key to Pak-EU ties, Dar says

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stressed the significance of GSP+ status for Pakistan's trade relations with the European Union (EU) in a meeting with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas on Monday. According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office, the meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), currently underway in New York. The deputy premier highlighted the importance Pakistan attaches to its partnership with the European Union, particularly in trade and economic cooperation. He stressed the significance of GSP+ for Pakistan's trade relations with the EU, the FO said. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with DPM Dar appreciating the EU's constructive engagement with Pakistan during recent regional developments, as well as its recognition of Pakistan's efforts towards de-escalation and dialogue. He called for a return to "the path of dialogue and diplomacy" and full implementation "by all parties" of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed between the US and Iran earlier this year, according to the statement. "Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement on matters of mutual interest," the FO added. The meeting took place against the backdrop of an intense engagement between Islamabad and Brussels over a trading scheme and its future. DPM Dar also met French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Noël Barrot on sidelines of the UNGA session. They reviewed the bilateral relations and agreed on utilising regional forums to address regional challenges and promote dialogue. The FM reiterated Pakistan's desire to further strengthen bilateral ties, including through enhanced political engagement, trade and investment, educational linkages and people-to-people exchanges.