Pakistan

Pakistan & the European Union

Editorial June 05, 2010

The five-year Engagement Plan reached between Pakistan and the EU in Brussels is a good stride forward, though for obvious reasons Islamabad would have probably liked some more concessions from Brussels. For instance, it does not offer the instant economic benefits that Pakistan sought, with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani pressing for immediate entry of Pakistani textile products into European markets, to which Pakistan feels entitled, not least because of its crucial role in the West-led war on terror. European Commission President Herman Van Rompuy suggested that Islamabad may in fact need to wait a bit longer – from one to three years – for trade concessions. A new meeting will be held in October to discuss an economic recovery plan for Pakistan. Despite this, the agreement with the EU to move ahead under the five-year plan on key issues, essentially those linked to law and order, marks a positive move forward. It is only by marching step in step with its partners that Pakistan can reach its destination. The EU's praise for Islamabad’s efforts against terrorism indicates recognition for Pakistan’s role and its significance as the frontline player in the war against terror. It is obvious that without a part played by Pakistan there can be little hope of lasting success. But the decisions taken at Brussels also mean that, for now, the heat remains on Pakistan. It has been asked to do more to deal with law and order especially in the realm of capacity building for law enforcement. This is a challenge Pakistan needs to work towards. There is a potential for assistance from countries within the EU which have had some experience in combating terror. Spain and Ireland come to mind. Events over the last few days make it quite evident our police could do with some specialised training. Their performance has come under severe criticism, with the Punjab chief minister also expressing reservations about their actions.

To combat its problems, Pakistan needs all the help it can get. The reassurances from the EU on this score are welcome. It is now up to Islamabad to ensure they are put to the best possible use, and can, in time, translate into the trade concessions Pakistan seeks to bolster its economy.

Published in the Express Tribune, 6^th, 2010.

COMMENTS (2)

Nadir El Edroos | 13 years ago | Reply Its not surprising the that PM came back disappointed. The EU made its case, and it was unrealistic to assume anything grander at the moment. One, the EU is battling hard to keep the Euro afloat, with Mediterranean Euro members unable to balance their books. Second, given the economic state of the EU it would be political suicide for the EU to offer any trade concessions at the moment. Third, in terms of development assistance, the EU hardly has a centralized development agency. Instead international development remains a largely national affair.

Manzoor Ahmad | 13 years ago | Reply I do not agree that the recent talks between Pakistan and EU have had any positive results for Pakistan. EU claim that they cannot give any additional market access to Pakistan because of WTO regulations is not correct. What the EU had to do is to change its own rules as to who is eligible for GSP plus concessions and WTO has already ruled that EU can make such rules. It is unfortunate that the EU allows duty free access to Pakistan's competitors like Bangladesh and many developing countries, while in case of Pakistan, it hides behind WTO rules. EU allows duty free access to Turkey, Egypt, Mexico, South Africa and many other countries who have a much higher per capita income and are not facing problems like Pakistan. It is unfortunate that if Pakistan cannot be given a preferential treatment, at least it can be given an equal treatment like many others. Pakistan should pickup the courage and take the EU to WTO dispute settlement. It has a very strong case and that is the only way to make the EU realize of its unfairness.

Replying to X