Pakistan, EU begin strategic talks

The fifth round of strategic dialogue between Pakistan and European Union (EU) has begun.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi apprised the EU about the human rights violations and atrocities being carried out by Indian forces in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

He urged the European body and the international community to take notice of the Indian brutalities in the IIOJK and asked them to play their role in resolving the Kashmir issue according to the United Nations resolutions.

The talks, which were held through a video link, were jointly chaired by FM Qureshi and EU Foreign Policy chief Joseph Borrell.

Qureshi observed that continuation of high-level contacts between Pakistan and EU in the areas of common interests proved that both enjoyed cordial relations with each other.

Expressing satisfaction over the implementation of “Strategic Engagement Plan”, which was signed 10 years ago, both the leaders agreed to further promote bilateral cooperation between the Pakistan and EU.

The meeting also reviewed the prevailing global coronavirus situation and the steps taken to contain its spread.

Qureshi underscored that despite limited economic resources, Pakistan through the smart lockdown strategy had successfully managed to stem the spread of the contagion.

He recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s suggestion for relief on the repayment of loans for the revival of weak economies was globally appreciated.

Qureshi expressed his gratitude towards EU for providing timely assistance to Pakistan to tackle the menace of coronavirus and called for united efforts on global front to deal with the pandemic.

He apprised his EU counterpart of the details and positive outcome of the Ehsaas programme, which the government had initiated to serve the poor and needy in the country.

Qureshi informed Borrell about the reservations Pakistan and Muslims around the world had over the growing trend of Islamophobia in some European countries.

Both the leaders also exchanged views on the peace efforts being carried out in Afghanistan.