ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif received a four-member delegation of the European Parliament (EP) on Tuesday. The delegation, led by Member European Parliament (MEP) Peter Van Dalen of the Netherlands, represented the European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) which is the third largest political group in the EP.
Welcoming the delegation, the foreign minister expressed satisfaction at the broad-based relationship between Pakistan and the European Union and expressed gratitude to the EP for its continued support, especially on the GSP-Plus Scheme.
Foreign Minister Asif briefed the delegation on the improved economic and security situation in the country and highlighted that Pakistan had turned the tide on terrorism through sheer commitment and sacrifices rendered by its people, military and law enforcement agencies. He also stressed upon the need to further strengthen parliamentary exchanges between the two sides.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s contribution towards establishing peace and security in the region, the MEPs expressed keen desire to work closely with Pakistan for the mutual benefit of the two sides. They also briefed the foreign minister on the priorities of the ECR.
Views were also exchanged on issues of importance including democracy, human rights and interfaith harmony.
