EU and Pakistan agreed to expand cooperation under the Strategic Engagement Plan and reaffirmed support for GSP+ trade status
BRUSSELS: The European Union and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation following the 7th EU–Pakistan Strategic Dialogue held in Brussels. Co-chaired by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the meeting highlighted mutual goals of sustainable growth, trade development, and political alignment.
The two sides reviewed progress made under the EU–Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) signed in 2019 and agreed to enhance collaboration in all areas covered by the agreement. This includes sustainable development, economic ties, human rights, security, and climate action.
One of the key agenda items was the continuation of Pakistan’s preferential trade access through the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+). Both parties reaffirmed the importance of GSP+ as a cornerstone of their economic relationship, with shared expectations on human rights and governance standards linked to the scheme.
The meeting also saw both sides underline the need for peaceful resolution of conflicts, with full adherence to international law and the United Nations Charter.
In a show of continued engagement, it was announced that the 8th round of the Strategic Dialogue will take place in Islamabad. The dialogue serves as a high-level platform to align EU–Pakistan cooperation with evolving global and regional challenges.
The discussions reflect a broader momentum in EU–Pakistan relations, building on shared political will to deepen ties across diplomacy, trade and security frameworks.
