Islamabad: Pakistan and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to enhance trade and investment connections through closer cooperation and regular engagement. This mutual understanding was reached during a meeting between the European Union’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Riina Kionka, and the Minister for Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, held in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussion focused on further strengthening EU-Pakistan economic and business relations, along with the establishment of the EU-Pakistan Business Network. This network engages over 400 EU companies operating across sectors in Pakistan, highlighting the depth of existing economic ties. The EU delegation expressed interest in expanding this platform and introduced the EU’s 25 Champion Companies initiative. This initiative aims to support 25 high-potential EU enterprises in Pakistan that align with principles of sustainable development, innovation, and inclusivity.

The Minister for Investment expressed appreciation for the EU’s longstanding support to Pakistan’s economic development. He highlighted the government’s resolve to achieve macroeconomic stability and improve key economic indicators such as fiscal balance, stock exchange performance, and the investment climate. He emphasized that these reforms are contributing directly to an improved business environment in Pakistan and urged the EU to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones.

Additionally, the Minister welcomed the EU Green Deal and expressed a strong interest in aligning Pakistan’s export sectors with the EU Green Zero targets. The EU Ambassador commended Pakistan’s efforts and stressed that regulatory efficiency is a key determinant in EU investment decisions. She emphasized that aligning with green standards will make Pakistan’s exports more accessible to EU markets.