ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the European Union (EU) have released a joint statement at the conclusion of the seventh round of their Strategic Dialogue, calling on Afghanistan’s interim authorities to take concrete steps to curb terrorism.
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According to the Foreign Office, the meeting was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas.
The two sides held detailed discussions on Pakistan-EU relations, cooperation under the 2019 Strategic Engagement Plan, and shared objectives for the future. Both agreed to deepen collaboration in political and economic affairs, human rights, trade, migration, development initiatives, and projects under the EU’s Global Gateway framework.
The statement added that Pakistan and the EU also agreed to expand academic and research exchanges through programmes such as Erasmus Mundus and Horizon Europe. They expressed a commitment to jointly address emerging challenges, including food and energy crises and climate change.
During the talks in Brussels, the EU acknowledged the continued importance of Pakistan’s GSP+ status, which remains a key pillar of bilateral economic ties. The two sides reaffirmed their support for resolving global disputes in line with UN principles, international law, multilateral cooperation, and efforts to strengthen global peace.
The situation in Gaza also came under discussion. Pakistan and the EU welcomed consensus on the first phase of President Trump’s comprehensive plan, urging all parties to honour the ceasefire, ensure timely implementation of all phases, and guarantee humanitarian access and reconstruction in Gaza. Both reaffirmed their support for a two-state solution.
Referring to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border tensions of October 2025, Pakistan and the EU stressed the need for regional peace and dialogue-based solutions. They called on Afghanistan’s interim authorities to take serious measures to eliminate terrorism.
The statement also noted concern over Afghanistan’s deteriorating economic situation, adding that long-term regional stability depends on peace, inclusive governance, and economic recovery in the country. The EU appreciated Pakistan for hosting millions of Afghan refugees for over four decades and emphasised that any return process must be safe, dignified, and consistent with international law.
Both sides agreed that the eighth round of the Strategic Dialogue will be held in Islamabad.
