KEY POINTS
- Pakistan-EU holds 10th round of political dialogue in Brussels
- Both sides discuss bilateral, key regional, and global issues
- Pakistani delegation briefs EU on human rights situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir
- Both sides appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the European Union have emphasised the need to pursue “dialogue and diplomacy” as the means for resolving conflicts, including Indian-occupied Kashmir and Gaza.
The shared stance came during the 10th round of political dialogue between Pakistan and the European Union held in Brussels on Thursday.
The Pakistani delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, while the EU delegation was headed by Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog, according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office.
During the talks, both sides covered bilateral, key regional, and global issues.
Pakistan and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the implementation of the Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP).
“The Pakistani delegation provided a detailed briefing on the situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir and the serious human rights violations occurring there,” the statement said. Both sides emphasised dialogue and diplomacy for conflict resolution.
Pakistan and the European Union also issued a joint appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and reiterated their support for lasting and just peace in Palestine. Both parties agreed to hold the 7th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue soon.
It may be recalled that last week, Pakistan and the European Union signed a €20 million grant agreement to launch the “Better Governance and Business Environment” initiative in Pakistan.
The agreement aims to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistan’s private sector, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including those led by or benefiting women.
