KARACHI: German Consul General in Karachi Dr Tilo Klinner has said the European Union (EU) has finalised the framework of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) Plus scheme and it is now up to Pakistan to benefit from it.
Visiting the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) office on Thursday, Klinner said Pakistan should ensure that all 27 conventions of GSP Plus concerning good governance were implemented in their true spirit.
GSP Plus is an incentive scheme for those developing countries which have a small share in total imports of the EU. Pakistan can apply for benefits under this scheme if it fulfils the requirements of the 27 conventions, which are mostly about sustainable development, labour rights and good governance.
Klinner explained that every member of the EU had its own commercial interests. Therefore, there will be a difference of opinion and nothing can be guaranteed beforehand, he said, adding all decisions were made in the EU parliament.
He stated that Germany supported Pakistan for greater market access. He also pointed out that the balance of trade between the two countries was in favour of Pakistan.
“Pakistan is a young country with the majority of population below 25 years of age. The textile sector, which is labour-intensive, can help employ these people,” he said.
About the energy crisis, he said Germany was ready to provide Pakistan with assistance, as Berlin was a main player in alternative, renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy. A number of German companies were already operating in various fields in Pakistan.
Referring to the travel advisory issued to German nationals, he stated that it was released only when an area was likely to see unrest.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 22nd, 2012.
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