Brussels, 9 December 2021 (TDI): Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, met a group of influential Belgian Parliamentarians and Member of the European Parliament (MEP). The meeting took place on 8 December in Brussels.
During the interactive session, both sides exchanged views on various matters of mutual interest, including bilateral relations of Pakistan and Belgium, Pakistan-Europe Union (EU) ties, regional and global developments.
The Foreign Minister briefed the Parliamentarians on the cordial and friendly relationship of Pakistan with the EU and its all member states, which are a portrayal of close and frequent engagements.
He mentioned that Pakistan EU Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP), signed in June 2019, has served as a silver lining in furthering bilateral cooperation during odd hours. It has also provided a roadmap to extend relations in near future.
He further pointed out that Pakistan and the EU had various dialogue mechanisms, where all matters of mutual interest are navigated and discussed in a transparent manner.
The Foreign Minister highlighted the reliance of the economies of Pakistan, EU, and Belgium through trade and investment ties with market economies that are a major component of the multidimensional relationships.
Additionally, he mentioned that GSP Plus has been a mutually beneficial undertaking. It has played an important part in the growth of Pakistan’s bilateral trade with the EU countries. Pakistan remains committed to the full implementation of the 27 international conventions related to GSP Plus.
Highlighting the role of Parliaments in providing new dimensions to bilateral relations and ways of cooperation, the Foreign Minister emphasized working with Pakistani colleagues to strengthen the partnership between Pakistan and Belgium.
The Foreign Minister briefed the Parliamentarians on Pakistan’s role in the Afghan peace process. He underscored the significance of the international community’s engagement in averting a humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan. He stressed that it is imperative to prevent Afghanistan from once again becoming a terrorist safe haven.
The Foreign Minister also apprised the Parliamentarians of the dire human rights and humanitarian situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He urged them to play an urgent and active role in preventing a humanitarian catastrophe in Kashmir and Afghanistan.
The Belgian Parliamentarians and the Members of the European Parliament appreciated Pakistan’s friendly policies towards the outer world and its role in bringing regional peace.
They also thanked the Foreign Minister for his briefing on Pakistan’s relations with Belgium and the EU as well as regional developments. Both sides agreed to enhance mutual collaboration on the matters of common objectives.
The Foreign Minister is on an official three-day visit to Belgium.
