- Ishaq Dar, EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas Discuss Regional Security, GSP+, and Economic Cooperation
MANILA: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held a meeting with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in Manila.
The meeting focused on strengthening Pakistan-EU relations, enhancing economic cooperation, and exchanging views on key regional and global developments.
Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement
During the meeting, High Representative Kaja Kallas warmly recalled her recent visit to Islamabad for the 8th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue, describing it as an important milestone in deepening bilateral engagement.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation under the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan, with an emphasis on expanding collaboration across political, economic, trade, and development sectors.
They underscored the importance of maintaining regular high-level dialogue to further strengthen the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the European Union.
Regional Security and Diplomacy Take Center Stage
The two sides exchanged views on the evolving regional security landscape, particularly developments related to the United States-Iran situation.
They agreed that sustained diplomacy and constructive dialogue remain the only viable and lasting path to achieving regional peace and stability. The discussions also covered the broader implications of the situation for regional security, global energy markets, maritime security, international trade, and supply chains.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of respecting international law and continuing diplomatic efforts to address emerging geopolitical challenges.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to GSP+ Obligations
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the effective implementation of all international conventions underpinning the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) framework.
He emphasized the significance Pakistan attaches to its economic partnership with the European Union, noting that continued cooperation under the GSP+ arrangement remains vital for promoting trade, sustainable development, and mutually beneficial economic growth.
The meeting reflected the shared resolve of Pakistan and the European Union to deepen their strategic partnership and work closely on regional peace, economic cooperation, and global challenges through sustained engagement and dialogue.
BY: The Times Union
