Pakistan assures EU of fulfilling obligations under GSP+ framework

Pakistan has reaffirmed its dedication to meeting the requirements of the European Union's GSP+ (Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus) trade program during a meeting with an EU delegation and ambassadors from European countries. Federal Minister for Law and Human Rights, Azam Nazeer Tarar, met with the delegation, which was led by EU Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis.

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The government is committed to safeguarding human rights while ensuring that counterterrorism measures were implemented strictly in accordance with the Constitution and the law.

The discussions focused on Pakistan-EU relations, the GSP+ framework, human rights, the rule of law, and areas for potential cooperation. The EU delegation included ambassadors from Sweden, Norway, France, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic, along with representatives from Canada and Ireland. Both sides exchanged views on Pakistan's progress in upholding human rights commitments and stressed the importance of continued engagement to strengthen the partnership.

During the meeting, the visiting diplomats acknowledged Pakistan's recent human rights initiatives, specifically mentioning the creation of the National Commission for Minorities and the passage of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act. They also addressed progress concerning the death penalty moratorium and Pakistan's broader human rights obligations. Minister Tarar briefed the delegation on ongoing legal and institutional reforms aimed at enhancing fundamental rights protection, improving access to justice, and reinforcing the rule of law.

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Both sides exchanged views on Pakistan’s progress in fulfilling its human rights commitments and reaffirmed importance of continued engagement to further strengthen the partnership between Pakistan and the European Union.

Tarar emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding human rights while ensuring strict adherence to constitutional and legal standards in counterterrorism efforts. He stated that legal reforms are being pursued to bolster democratic institutions and refine the justice system. Pakistan assured the EU of its continued constructive engagement and cooperation on human rights, legal reforms, and GSP+ commitments. The meeting concluded with mutual satisfaction over the dialogue and a shared commitment to deepen cooperation and maintain regular engagement.

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The visiting diplomats appreciated Pakistan’s recent initiatives in the field of human rights, particularly the establishment of the National Commission for Minorities and the enactment of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act.