07/03/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 10 March, EU Foreign Ministers will reflect on the parliamentary and provincial elections which took place in Pakistan on 18 February (se EUROPE 9607). According to the draft conclusions, which are expected to be adopted without discussion, the Council will say that these elections were competitive, despite significant problems with the election framework and environment. It will say, too, that the elections were an important step in the democratic development of Pakistan. The EU will support the country in strengthening democratic institutions promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms, and in combating extremism, the conclusions add. The conclusions say that the EU will continue to explore ways to enhance trade with Pakistan and trade within the South Asia region. (A.B.)