ISLAMABAD: European Union Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis on Friday reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to helping Pakistan secure the continuation of GSP+ trade preferences, saying the bloc will work closely with the Pakistani government to maintain the arrangement.
During a Europe Day reception here, the ambassador said Pakistan remained an important economic and strategic partner for the European Union. “As Pakistan’s largest trading partner and top export destination, we’re committed to deepening ties, creating jobs, driving innovation and supporting sustainable growth. The continuation of GSP+ preferences is a key, and we will work with Pakistan’s government to secure their continuation,” he said.
The Europe Day celebration brought together Team Europe partners, government representatives, diplomats, civil society members and friends of the European Union. The event began with the national anthems of Pakistan and the European Union by Pakistani musicians using traditional instruments including the sitar, tabla and flute, symbolising cultural ties and friendship between the two sides.
Ambassador Karoblis and chief guest power minister Sardar Awais Leghari addressed the gathering and highlighted the growing partnership between Pakistan and the European Union. Referring to the origins of the European Union, the ambassador said 74 years ago, the Schuman Declaration laid the foundation for “a union of peace, solidarity and shared prosperity” after the devastation of war in Europe. He said the same vision continued to guide the EU as it confronted global challenges including climate change, economic instability, geopolitical tensions and digital transformation. “But Europe does not act alone. Defending peace, stability, and international law requires partnership, including with Pakistan,” he said. “In a world of conflict and hybrid threats, the EU stands firm: supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, strengthening defence capabilities, and countering disinformation. Security is shared, and together, we build a safer world.”
The EU ambassador also praised Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement in regional affairs and acknowledged Islamabad’s role in promoting dialogue. “I commend the leadership of Pakistan for their constructive role in mediating between the US and Iran. In a divided world, your commitment to diplomacy is both necessary and commendable, a principle we share,” he said.
Highlighting broader global cooperation, Karoblis said no country could address climate change, technological transformation and democratic pressures alone. “With Pakistan, we turn shared challenges into shared solutions, whether in climate adaptation, education or economic cooperation,” he said.
