'In everybody’s interest': EU's top diplomat says bloc seeks stability in Middle East

European Union's top diplomat Kaja Kallas stressed the bloc's desire for stability in the Middle East, particularly advocating for an end to the ongoing war and the unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz. "This is in everybody’s interest that this war is stopped and the Strait of Hormuz is opened," Kallas stated during a visit to Pakistan for the 8th EU-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue. She highlighted the "very high price" the world is paying due to disruptions, noting the critical dependence on the vital shipping lane.

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This is in everybody’s interest that this war is stopped and the Strait of Hormuz is opened. We are paying a very high price. There are a lot of things dependent on the Strait of Hormuz.

Kallas commended Pakistan's role as a mediator between the United States and Iran, acknowledging that ultimately, the warring parties must make decisions to de-escalate. She expressed hope for progress in initial agreements that could lead to talks on more complex issues, such as nuclear matters. "The problems of our neighbour today could be the problems for us tomorrow. We are all very interlinked," she observed, underscoring the EU's pursuit of regional stability.

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Eventually, the [warring] parties have to decide.

Discussing Pakistan's GSP+ status, Kallas explained that continued preferential access to EU markets is conditional. A report is due in July, and the renewal of this trade scheme hinges on Pakistan adopting further conventions, especially concerning human rights. "We need to see improvements," she stated, noting that the EU Parliament will scrutinize the situation. While Pakistani counterparts have outlined their actions, Kallas emphasized the need for tangible progress. "We are putting forward some very concrete questions. Hopefully, there is time for improvement in those areas, and then we can renew this scheme easily," she concluded, linking the renewal to observable advancements.

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The problems of our neighbour today could be the problems for us tomorrow. We are all very interlinked.

When questioned about parallels between the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza/Lebanon, Kallas pointed to the common thread of undermining international law. She cited the UN Charter's principles on respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity, asserting that no entity should operate above the law. Kallas also touched upon the EU's strategy to diversify trade routes and supply chains, calling the Strait of Hormuz a "chokepoint" and warning against over-reliance on single pathways.

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You cannot remain dependent on a single route.