Brussels, 09/02/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 8 February, the EU High Representative welcomed the adoption of the EU-Pakistan 5-year engagement plan by the Council. This plan aims to build a strong relationship by forging a partnership for peace and development rooted in shared values, principles and commitments, and will contribute to fostering peace and stability in the region, stressed Catherine Ashton. The EU will continue to work closely with Pakistan as it seeks to address its economic and developmental challenges and provide security for hte people, added the EU High Representative. Ashton said that this plan, “is an expression of the EU's determination to support Pakistan's institutions». The two sides are already meeting at senior official level to discuss implementation. During her upcoming visit to Pakistan, Ashton will inaugurate, “a strategic dialogue, based on the engagement plan, together with Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar”.
Catherine Ashton was also keen to thank members of the WTO for agreeing to the European Union's request for a waiver on additional autonomous preferences to Pakistan during a meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods on 1 February. She is looking forward to the WTO General Council confirming this decision during its forthcoming meeting on 14 February. She also stated that, “the EU remains committed to support Pakistan in providing assistance for economic recovery and reconstruction following the floods." (CG/transl.fl)