Pakistan, EU agree to continue cooperation on food, climate change challenges

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration on critical global challenges, including food and energy security, climate change, and sustainable development. Both sides emphasized ongoing engagement in trade, migration, human rights, political, economic, and development cooperation, with a special focus on the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.

This mutual understanding was achieved during the 14th Pakistan-European Union Joint Commission meeting, which reviewed recent political developments and the ongoing formation of the new College of Commissioners.Pakistan, Azerbaijan pledge climate resilience

1. Governance and Human Rights:
   o Preceded by the Sub-Group on Democracy, Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights, both sides stressed the importance of political pluralism, democratic values, independent media, judicial independence, and vibrant civil society for credible elections.
   o Pakistan shared its reform initiatives, including the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, emphasizing its commitment to the 27 international conventions under GSP+.
2. Trade and Economic Cooperation:
   o Discussions highlighted progress in bilateral trade since the GSP status was granted in 2014.
   o Both sides acknowledged the significance of a robust multilateral trading system and explored opportunities for deeper cooperation in the World Trade Organization (WTO) and bilateral trade frameworks.
3. Development Priorities:
   o Pakistan and the EU reaffirmed their shared focus on Green Inclusive Growth, Human Capital Development, and Governance under the Multi-annual Indicative Programme (MIP).
   o The EU presented its project framework for 2025-2027 following the Mid-Term Review of the MIP, while Pakistan expressed appreciation for the European Investment Bank’s recent engagement.
4. Migration and Mobility:
   o The two parties reviewed progress under the Pakistan-EU Migration and Mobility Dialogue, discussing legal migration opportunities and return and readmission mechanisms under the Joint Readmission Agreement.
5. Afghan Refugee Crisis:
   o The EU commended Pakistan’s decades-long generosity in hosting Afghan refugees and supported the extension of Proof of Registration cards until June 30, 2025. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the Solution Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSAR).
6. Middle East Peace Process:
   o Pakistan called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Arab territories. The EU echoed the call for an urgent ceasefire, release of hostages, unhindered humanitarian aid, and adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 2735.
   • Both parties reiterated their dedication to implementing the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) signed in 2019, proposing expanded cooperation in agriculture, taxation, and disaster risk reduction.
   • Pakistan and the EU emphasized the need for peaceful conflict resolution, respecting international law and the UN Charter.
   The next Pakistan-EU Joint Commission meeting is scheduled to be held in Brussels in 2025.