Brussels, 27/03/2014 (Agence Europe) - Brussels and Islamabad have agreed to set up a dialogue on energy. An initial dialogue on non-proliferation is desired as soon as possible.
The second session of the strategic EU-Pakistan dialogue between High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton and Sartaj Aziz, Adviser to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on National Security and Foreign Affairs, on 25 March enabled progress to be reviewed in their bilateral relations - including through the five-year engagement plan adopted in 2012. It also enabled regional and international issues to be discussed.
Ashton stressed the EU's continued support for democratic institutions and the rule of law in Pakistan, and referred to the transparent elections in May 2013 and the contribution of the EU election observation mission. Pakistan thanked the EU for its inclusion in the GSP+ scheme of trade preferences, which is conditional upon Pakistan's efforts on sustainable development and good governance. Aziz recalled the measures that Pakistan has taken to promote and protect human rights, including those of women, children and minority groups. Ashton welcomed these measures and encouraged efforts to fulfil international commitments in national laws - in particular with respect to the rights of women. Both parties agreed to continue dialogue and cooperation for the effective implementation of the relevant UN conventions in the context of GSP+.
The Pakistani side also referred to the security situation in Pakistan and the new national policy in this area (the NISP) -assurance of EU support for which was given by Ashton. The two parties agreed to hold an initial dialogue on non-proliferation and disarmament as soon as possible.
Lastly, the parties discussed the economy, trade and migration, and agreed to broaden their cooperation on energy (which will now be the subject of a dialogue), on climate change, on research and on higher education through the five-year engagement plan. Aziz underlined the importance of support for poverty alleviation, drinking water and irrigation in remote and arid areas - a subject that will be addressed during the next joint commission meeting in June. (EH)