Pakistan and the European Parliament have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnership under the GSP+ framework, focusing on trade, investment, human rights, and sustainable development.
A high-level delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on Development visited the Ministry of Commerce in Islamabad on Monday, where Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held a detailed meeting with the delegation.
During the meeting, both sides explored avenues to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, and human rights, emphasizing transparency and sustainable growth in Pakistan–EU relations.
Khan underscored Pakistan’s strong ties with the European Union, highlighting ongoing reforms and progress in key areas such as labor rights, climate action, and social protection. He noted that Pakistan’s election to the UN Human Rights Council for 2026–2028 reflects international confidence in the country’s commitment to human rights.
He also highlighted the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) attaining ‘A-status’ accreditation, recognizing Pakistan’s institutional reforms. Significant legislative developments were discussed, including the Islamabad Child Marriage Restraint Act 2025, new laws for journalists’ protection, and measures promoting interfaith harmony.
On the economic front, the minister noted that the policy interest rate has been reduced from 22 percent to 11 percent, signaling stability and recovery. He emphasized the country’s focus on industrial expansion and developing a skilled workforce, noting that 60 percent of Pakistan’s population is under 30, making vocational and technical training a government priority.
Inviting European investors, Khan encouraged increased investment in agriculture, food processing, industry, and e-commerce sectors. He also raised key trade issues, including the withdrawal of duty concessions on ethanol exports and the geographical indication (GI) dispute over Basmati rice, urging the EU for fair and equitable resolutions to protect Pakistan’s rural economy.
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He further sought EU cooperation on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and other environmental regulations to ensure a balanced transition toward green trade practices.
Members of the European Parliament praised Pakistan’s transparency, reforms, and commitment to human capital development, acknowledging the government’s efforts to advance good governance and sustainable progress. Both sides also exchanged views on global peace, education, and economic collaboration.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to deepen cooperation for enhanced trade and sustainable development under the GSP+ framework.
