European Union (EU) Ambassador Lars Wigemark, leading a delegation, called on Punjab Governor Latif Khosa and discussed various matters of mutual interest at the Governor’s House on Thursday. The EU diplomat admired Pakistan’s services for world peace adding that the international community appreciates Pakistan’s role in curtailing extremist forces. Wigemark said that the EU is the largest trading partner of Pakistan and wishes to see regional trade flourish, urging that India and Pakistan should resolve their long-standing issues for economic development of the region. He said that Pakistan enjoys full support of EU and the union would support Pakistan in all sectors, especially the energy sector.
Khosa said that Pakistan has sacrificed precious lives for world peace adding that the menace of extremism is being fought by Pakistan more than any other country in the world. The governor said that Pakistan wishes to have cordial relations with all its neighbouring countries adding that India must agree to resolve the long-standing Kashmir dispute by granting right of self-determination to the Kashmiris according to the UN resolutions and the water dispute, which has been affecting the national economy. He urged the EU to grant free market access to Pakistani businessmen with reduced tariffs and support the country in energy, education and health sectors. Khosa also talked about the federal government’s efforts for democracy and strengthening democratic institutions.