In a significant meeting held in Islamabad on Friday, Pakistan firmly reiterated its dedication to the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), a pact crucial for the nation's economic landscape. Federal Commerce Minister, Jam Kamal Khan, convened with a high-level European Commission Monitoring Mission, led by Mr. Sergio Balibrea, Advisor to the GSP+ Directorate in DG TRADE. The delegation was also accompanied by the EU Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Raimundas Karoblis.
Strengthening a Vital Trade Partnership
Minister Jam Kamal Khan warmly welcomed the EU officials and underscored the profound importance of the European Union, which stands as Pakistan's largest export market. He detailed how the GSP+ status has been instrumental in boosting trade volumes, generating employment, empowering women, and fostering sustainable development across the country. The minister confidently expressed that Pakistan has continuously upheld its obligations by implementing the 27 international conventions linked to the GSP+ agreement. He projected optimism that the upcoming 5th Biennial Review would formally recognize the substantial progress Pakistan has made, even in the face of significant challenges.
Addressing Key Concerns and Future Hopes
While reaffirming commitment, Minister Khan also presented key concerns on behalf of Pakistan. He urged that the forthcoming GSP+ framework should retain its core development-focused nature and avoid placing burdensome new conditions on developing nations. A major point of discussion was the EU's recent decision to withdraw GSP preferences on Ethanol. This move has had a direct negative impact, as Ethanol was Pakistan's largest non-textile export under the scheme, and its withdrawal adversely affects the livelihoods of local farmers.
Another critical topic was the Geographical Indication (GI) registration of Basmati rice. Minister Khan emphasized the necessity for a completely fair and impartial process as both Pakistan and India await a final decision from the EU. Looking forward, he actively encouraged the EU to consider granting GI protection to other iconic Pakistani products, specifically naming Sindhi Ajrak, Pink Salt, and Mangoes, to help preserve their unique identity and enhance their market value.
A Mutual Commitment to Progress
The meeting concluded on a positive and collaborative note, with both Pakistani and European Union representatives reaffirming their commitment to deepening trade relations. The mutual goal is to cultivate a stable, predictable, and mutually beneficial GSP+ partnership that continues to drive economic growth and development in Pakistan while strengthening its trade bonds with the EU.
