Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met European Union’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas in Islamabad, where both sides discussed strengthening Pakistan-EU relations and exploring new areas of cooperation.

Dar underlined that Pakistan sees “considerable untapped potential” in its partnership with the European Union, particularly in trade, economic collaboration, and broader diplomatic engagement.

He highlighted the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the EU and stressed the importance of maintaining regular strategic dialogue, suggesting that meetings should be held at six-month intervals.

Kallas, who is the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, is visiting Pakistan to co-chair the 8th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue, described as the highest-level structured engagement platform between the two sides.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, both parties acknowledged the positive direction of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.

They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including evolving geopolitical tensions and past crises involving Pakistan’s relations with neighbouring countries and broader international conflicts.

The EU remains Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner, with the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) status allowing duty-free or reduced-duty access for Pakistani exports.

The EU has emphasised that Pakistan must continue implementing international conventions related to human rights, labour rights, governance, and environmental standards to maintain this status.

While the EU has extended GSP+ benefits until 2027, officials have also noted the need for continued reforms, particularly in areas such as minority rights, legal protections, and governance issues.The visit also included discussions on future high-level exchanges, including a possible visit by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.