EU pathway

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Top European Union diplomat Kaja Kallas' word of praise for Islamabad, especially over its role in mediating between the United States and Iran, has set the stage for many more leaps forward for Pakistan in the realms of foreign policy. The route now for Pakistan is to focus and divert its synergies in tapping the 27-member European bloc for buoying its economic potential, and striking a more favourable deal in trade and tariffs. Pakistani products have the vibrancy to penetrate even deeper into the European markets, and bring dividends for its struggling economy.

Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, was here to be part of the 8th Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue, which she co-chaired along with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Her presence at a time when a new world order is unfolding, amid widespread global revulsion, depicts Pakistan's indispensability. Kallas promised more access to the bloc provided Islamabad adheres to the conditions of GSP+ scheme by inwardly addressing the irritants in the domains of labour laws, human rights protocols, democracy and rule of law. As a progressive state, Pakistan has upheld pluralism in its body politic, and this sense of commitment is in need of being portrayed in good faith by acting introspectively and undoing the flaws.

EU is Pakistan's largest export destination, accounting for $12 billion annually, and this preferential protocol under GSP+ scheme must be reworked by showcasing the geo-economic muscle of a struggling economy in pursuit of more laissez faire deals. Textiles, garments, small entrepreneur start-ups and culturally rich artefacts must resonate in EU more vividly.

EU's coming forward to buckle up Pakistan economy will be a great service, as it will help Pakistan over its role for fostering peace in the region by defeating the extremist ideology that shuns openness with the western world. New vistas in technology transfer, trade priority and climate cooperation are the hallmarks that need a preferential touch.