Pakistan and the European Union have agreed to continue exploring opportunities to further strengthen relations in all areas of common interest.
In a Joint Press Communiqué following the 8th Round of the Pakistan-European Union Strategic Dialogue held in Islamabad today, both sides reiterated the importance of continuing cooperation within the framework of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP+).
Both sides also reaffirmed the importance of the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in international obligations.
Appreciating the growing level of co-operation on the issue of migration and labour mobility, Pakistan and the European Union agreed to continue to work closely towards the implementation of the Pakistan-EU Talent Partnership Roadmap for mutual benefit.
Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together on countering migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings in the context of the Global Alliance, as well as on returns and readmission.
Pakistan and the European Union also agreed on the importance of respecting international treaty obligations, bilateral and regional agreements as well as international law and international humanitarian law.
The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas commended Pakistan’s constructive and meaningful role in its mediation efforts between the US and Iran, including by hosting the Islamabad Talks.
Both sides highlighted the importance of committing to a negotiated resolution of all outstanding issues, including ensuring free and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Pakistani side acknowledged with appreciation the support extended by EU for its mediation efforts and the frequent exchanges between EU and Pakistani leadership on this matter.
The two sides also discussed cooperation on counterterrorism as part of their wider engagement on security matters within the framework of the 2019 Strategic Engagement Plan.
Both sides agreed on the need for supporting effective multilateralism and the rules-based international order, with the United Nations at its core, in their shared interests of stability, peace and prosperity across the globe. Pakistan and the European Union reaffirmed commitment to maintain close coordination on regional and global issues based on their shared values and common objectives.
The Pakistani side briefed the EU side on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, while the EU side briefed Pakistani side on Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Both sides expressed support for the peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter.
On Afghanistan, the two sides expressed serious concern over the presence of terrorist entities in Afghanistan and reiterated that Afghan territory must not be used to threaten or attack other countries.
They reaffirmed the importance of combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
They called on the Afghan de facto authorities to take effective and verifiable action against all terrorist groups operating in or from Afghanistan.
The EU side encouraged the reduction in tensions, resolving security concerns and upholding of international law.
Both sides also noted with concern the deteriorating situation of human rights, particularly the rights of women and girls, including restrictions on fundamental freedoms, access to education and participation in public life, as well as freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
Pakistan and the European Union also discussed the situation in the occupied Palestinian Territory, and welcomed international efforts to end the war in Gaza.
They emphasized the importance of ensuring that all parties adhere to the ceasefire commitments, allow for safe, rapid and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance and work towards a permanent end to hostilities that can allow for efforts to ensure the stabilization, recovery and reconstruction of Gaza.
The two sides also expressed concern at the developments in the Occupied West Bank and called for an end to violence and illegal settlement activities.
Pakistan and the European Union also reaffirmed their support for practical and concrete steps for long-term and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution in accordance with international law, the Charter of the UN and relevant UN resolutions.
Both sides also reaffirmed their support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity and stability of Lebanon and agreed on the need for coordinated international efforts for a peaceful and lasting resolution.
The two sides agreed to convene the 9th Round of the Strategic Dialogue in Brussels.
