Pakistan has turned the tide on terrorism, Khawaja Asif tells EU parliamentarians

Four-member European parliamentary delegation calls on the minister in Islamabad

Pakistan has turned the tide on terrorism through sheer commitment and sacrifices rendered by its people, army and law enforcement personnel, Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif has said.

He was talking to a four-member delegation of the European Parliament which called on him in Islamabad on Tuesday, the Foreign Office said in a statement.

The visiting team, led by members of European Parliament (MEP) Peter Van Dalen of the Netherlands, represents the European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR), which is the third largest political group in the European Parliament.



Asif apprised the delegation on the improved economic and security situation in the country. He expressed satisfaction at the broad-based relationship between Pakistan and the European Union and expressed gratitude to the EU parliament for its continued support, especially on the GSP Plus scheme.

The minister stressed upon the need to further strengthen parliamentary exchanges between the two sides.

Acknowledging Pakistan's contribution towards establishing peace and security in the region, the MEPs expressed keen desire to work closely with Pakistan for the mutual benefit of the two sides.

They briefed the minister on the priorities of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group. Views were also exchanged on issues of importance, including democracy, human rights and interfaith harmony.