Trade, Investment in focus as Pakistan PM, EU Top Diplomat hold High-Level Talks

ISLAMABAD – European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas, called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad to discuss strengthening Pakistan–EU relations. The talks focused on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, alongside key areas such as climate change, security, migration, and regional stability. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening strategic engagement and reviewed ongoing dialogue under the Pakistan–EU partnership framework. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and other senior officials. The premier welcomed EU High Representative and reiterated Pakistan’s interest in further strengthening its broad-based partnership with the European Union. He expressed satisfaction over the 8th round of the Pakistan–EU Strategic Dialogue held earlier in the day. PM underscored Pakistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the EU in key sectors, including trade and investment, climate change, security, migration, sustainable development, and regional connectivity. He also highlighted the importance of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) framework in supporting trade relations between Pakistan and the EU. Discussions also covered regional and international issues. The Prime Minister appreciated the European Union’s support for Pakistan’s peace efforts in the Gulf region and stressed the importance of coordinated international engagement to ensure lasting regional stability. He also shared Pakistan’s perspective on South Asia and the situation in Afghanistan. Prime Minister further conveyed his good wishes for European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and reiterated invitations for their visits to Pakistan. Kaja Kallas also