Brussels, 13/05/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 11 May, Gilles de Kerchove, the EU's anti-terrorism chief, confirmed that the first summit between the European Union and Pakistan would take place in Brussels on 17 June. Top of the meeting programme subjects are: - the fight against terrorism, including the fight going on in Afghanistan, its neighbour; - improved cooperation regarding the rule of law and trade questions. During the debate organised by the Security Defence Agenda, Mr de Kerchove declared: “Pakistan recognises the threat it faces from terrorism and is 'eager' to work with the EU”. De Kerchove pointed that out that previously no cooperation between Pakistan and the EU existed in fighting terrorism. He added that “this time they see Europe as a relevant partner and are eager to get our assistance”. He also said that the EU could help Pakistan transform its military activities in fighting terrorism in an approach based on application of the law. Similarly, Europeans could help in collecting proof in terrorism cases. Mr de Kerchove explained that “most people arrested in Pakistan last year over terrorism suspicions were released because of a lack of evidence”. According to de Kerchove, the development of a partnership with Islamabad is even more important given that the training of young Europeans continues to take place in Pakistani territory. The EU coordinator also publicly referred to Yemen as one of the countries with a strong potential for developing terrorist activities. Mr de Kerchove underlined the progress carried out by the EU in fighting terrorism, despite the control exercised by member states in this area. Out of the four areas in the overall European approach on fighting terrorism, the most important progress has been made at a level of protection and criminal proceedings but progress remained, however, dependent on preventive action and response, explained the EU coordinator. Mr de Kerchove also underscored the fact that intelligence services were cooperating more closely with the transport industry, the finance sector and local police forces in helping prevent terrorist attacks. (B.C./transl.rh)