European Union Special Representative for Human Rights Ambassador Olaf Skoog on Tuesday called on Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and discussed means to strengthen the Pak-E.U. partnership through trade and economic cooperation.
According to a statement, the dialogue focused on sustaining and advancing trade benefits under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) protocol, while ensuring compliance with international commitments on human rights, labor rights, environmental standards, and good governance.
Welcoming the E.U. delegation, the minister said it was a major partner for Pakistan. “We value our trade and diplomatic ties deeply,” he said.
During the meeting, Khan reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to its international obligations. “We are not only improving on these aspects as international obligations but because it is beneficial for us as a nation and government,” he said.
The envoy praised Pakistan’s active engagement with the E.U. and highlighted the mutual benefits of the GSP+ framework for both Pakistani exporters and European importers. He also expressed his desire for stronger collaboration between the E.U. and Pakistan at multilateral human rights forums.
Acknowledging the economic challenges faced by the government in the past year, the minister assured the visiting delegation of significant progress, noting reductions to inflation and interest rates.
Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration to ensure Pakistan’s continued eligibility for GSP+ status while addressing shared concerns. Khan reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling international obligations through initiatives led by the Treaty Implementation Cell.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about the future of Pak-E.U. relations.