Brussels: Pakistan and the European Union have reiterated their commitment to fostering sustainable growth and advancing trade development. This consensus was reached during the 7th Round of the EU-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas in Brussels.
According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting focused on EU-Pakistan bilateral relations, particularly reviewing cooperation within the framework of the EU-Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan from 2019. Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration across all areas covered under the strategic engagement plan, aiming to align their overall strategic outlook.
The dialogue highlighted the importance of enhancing knowledge partnerships through Erasmus Mundus and Horizon Europe, and emphasized joint efforts to address emerging challenges related to food and energy security and climate change. The leaders expressed strong
political support for the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP+), a key element of EU-Pakistan relations.
Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms globally, in accordance with their international obligations. The situation in the Middle East was also discussed, with both sides welcoming the agreement on the first phase of the Comprehensive Plan to end the Gaza Conflict, proposed by President Donald Trump.
The discussion extended to Pakistan-Afghanistan relations amid October 2025 cross-border tensions. Ishaq Dar and Kaja Kallas reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, stability, and prosperity, advocating for dialogue between the two neighbors to resolve issues. They urged Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to play a constructive role in eliminating terrorism from Afghan territory.
Concerned about Afghanistan’s deteriorating socio-economic conditions, both sides supported a vision for a peaceful, stable, and self-reliant Afghanistan
contributing to regional stability. The parties agreed to convene the 8th Round of the Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad.