New York: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif engaged in discussions with the President of the European Council, António Luís Santos da Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula Gertrud von der Leyen, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting focused on evaluating Pakistan’s relationship with the European Union and exploring avenues for further collaboration.

According to Press Information Department, the leaders expressed satisfaction over the increasing momentum in high-level exchanges between Pakistan and the EU. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with the European Union through the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan. He highlighted the necessity of sustained leadership-level engagement to propel the relationship forward.

The discussion also covered the significance of the GSP Plus status for Pakistan’s economic growth, employment, and trade with the European Union. Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ongoing engagement with the EU under this framework. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments, underscoring the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, international law, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Prime Minister Sharif extended an invitation to the Presidents of the European Council and European Commission to visit Pakistan, expressing his intention to continue working closely with EU leadership to strengthen the partnership.