Key points
- Zardari backs deeper cooperation under the Strategic Plan
- EU is a key trade and investment partner of Pakistan
- Dr Kionka praised for strengthening ties
ISLAMABAD: The outgoing Head of the European Union Delegation to Pakistan, Dr Riina Kionka, paid a farewell call on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan‑e‑Sadr on Tuesday.
Welcoming Dr Kionka, the president said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its multidimensional partnership with the European Union.
He observed that a strong Pakistan‑EU relationship contributes to regional stability and global security in a volatile world.
Trade and investment partner
President Zardari highlighted that the European Union is one of Pakistan’s largest trade and investment partners.
He said that there is vast potential to further expand development cooperation with the EU, given Pakistan’s large young population and significant industrial growth prospects.
The president also expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to benefit from European expertise through programmes such as Erasmus Mundus and Horizon Europe.
Pakistan‑EU Strategic Engagement Plan
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the full implementation of the Pakistan‑EU Strategic Engagement Plan, underscoring that, shared objectives in trade, development, climate, migration and regional peace form the basis of an enduring and stronger partnership.
President Zardari congratulated Dr Kionka on the successful completion of her tenure in Pakistan and lauded her valuable contributions to further strengthening Pakistan‑EU relations.
He wished her continued success in her future endeavours.
