Karachi, 29 November 2022 (TDI): European Union (EU) Ambassador to Pakistan Riina Kionka met with Speaker Sindh Assembly, Agha Siraj Durrani. The first meeting was based on a constructive discussion on EU-Sindh relations.
The discussion between both officials included human rights questions within the context of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
EU is also supporting PAIDAR project through €50 million in Chuhar Jamali, Sindh. It is the first rural growth center established by the provincial government with the support of the EU. This project falls under the framework of the Poverty Reduction Strategy.
EU and Sindh relations
European Union is committed to a stable and democratic environment in Pakistan that respects human rights and benefits from full economic potential.
EU is strengthening relations with Pakistan through cooperation in education, trade, technical education, and women empowerment. Along with this, the EU has granted the status of GSP+ (Generalized System of Preferences) to Pakistan which allows duty-free market access to Pakistani exports.
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The international agreements required for GSP fall under four categories including human rights, labor rights, environment, climate change, and good governance.
Pakistan has shown great commitment under GSP to ensure social and environmental sustainability in the country. The provinces have come forward with different bills, amendments, and laws to protect the commitments.
Sindh in this regard has come forward with policies and bills to protect human rights. Sindh Assembly passed Sindh Factories (Amendment) Bill, 2021 to support better working conditions for women in factories.
In addition, Sindh Women Agriculture Workers Act 2019 ensured the rights of women working in farming, livestock, and fisheries.
Moreover, in order to protect the rights of children, the Sindh assembly passed Child Protection Authority Amendment Act 2021. This was passed to take strict actions against child abusers.
EU has been sponsoring developmental projects in Sindh. The Sindh government recognizes and appreciates the cooperation of the European Union.
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