ISLAMABAD: European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has described Pakistan as a major regional power and an important partner for the European Union, as Islamabad and Brussels reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation during the 8th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue held in the federal capital.
Addressing a joint media briefing alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Kallas highlighted Pakistan’s growing regional significance and emphasized the EU’s interest in expanding collaboration across trade, security, climate resilience, digital connectivity and development.
She noted that the European Union remains Pakistan’s largest export destination, adding that Pakistan continues to be the leading beneficiary of the EU’s GSP+ trade framework, which has played a central role in strengthening economic ties between the two sides.
The dialogue reviewed progress under the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan 2019, covering areas including trade, investment, migration, human rights, rule of law, security cooperation and counter-terrorism.
During discussions, both sides exchanged views on major regional and global developments, including the security environment in South Asia, Afghanistan, the Middle East and broader geopolitical challenges.
Kallas also acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic role in regional de-escalation efforts, appreciating Islamabad’s mediation initiatives that she said helped avert wider conflict in the region.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described the strategic dialogue as the highest institutional platform between Pakistan and the European Union, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to strengthening long-term engagement with the bloc.
Both parties expressed resolve to further expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, digital infrastructure, climate resilience, mobility programs and people-to-people exchanges, signaling a broader push toward a more comprehensive Pakistan-EU partnership.