PM Shehbaz Emphasises GSP Plus Role in Strengthening EU Ties

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced the importance of the European Union's Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP Plus) for Pakistan's economic growth, job creation, and export enhancement during meetings held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

Shehbaz met with European Council President António Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss ways to strengthen Pakistan's partnership with the EU. He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan and highlighted the significance of keeping up high-level leadership contact to guide and energise bilateral relations.

The discussions covered a broad range of issues, with both sides expressing satisfaction over the increased momentum in high-level engagements between Pakistan and the EU. The importance of ongoing cooperation under the GSP Plus framework was underlined, and Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan's dedication to fulfilling its commitments within this arrangement.

The meeting also included an exchange of perspectives on regional and global matters, with all parties stressing the value of dialogue, diplomacy, respect for international law, and peaceful dispute resolution.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the mutual partnership, noting that the Strategic Engagement Plan embodies shared dedication to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. She also thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz for Pakistan's role in attempting to mediate between the United States and Iran, acknowledging Pakistan's contributions to promoting de-escalation and conflict resolution.

Both parties discussed avenues to advance cooperation, particularly in trade and managing illegal migration. Prime Minister Shehbaz extended formal invitations to both the European Council and European Commission Presidents to visit Pakistan and expressed eagerness to deepen the partnership further.