Pakistan enjoys multifaceted relations with the European Union (EU). The framework of Strategic Engagement Plan between Pakistan and the European Union covers the areas of Peace and Security; Democracy, Rule of Law, Governance and Human rights; Migration and Mobility; Trade and Investment; Sustainable Development; Education and Culture; and Science and Technology. A number of institutional mechanisms including Strategic Dialogue, Political Dialogue, Joint Commission, Joint Readmission Committee, and others have been set up for regular exchange of views in these sectors.
The EU is one of Pakistan's largest trading partners and a significant source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Pakistan. The EU accounts for a substantial share of Pakistan's exports, particularly in the sectors of textiles and garments. The Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) provides Pakistan with preferential access to the EU market, and has contributed towards a substantial increase in trade between the two sides. Both Pakistan and EU have benefitted from the scheme, resulting in a win-win situation.
The EU has also been an important development partner for Pakistan. The development cooperation focuses on areas such as education, health, governance, capacity building, poverty alleviation, human rights and gender equality, among others.
The EU member states also host a large Pakistani diaspora, which acts as a bridge and contributes to strengthening of bilateral ties and enhancing mutual understanding.
In 2022, Pakistan and EU launched Migration and Mobility Dialogue, which will open pathways for legal migration from Pakistan to the EU countries and curb illegal migration.
Pakistan also maintains friendly and cooperative bilateral ties with the 27 EU member states, in a wide range of areas including political exchanges, trade, commerce and investment, development cooperation, education, technical and vocational training, defence and security, climate change, culture, archaeology and people to people contacts. Bilateral Political Consultations are also held with many EU member states to review existing bilateral relations, take new initiatives, and exchange views of regional and global issues of mutual interest.
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