The European Union has reaffirmed the importance of its relationship with Pakistan, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas describing the country as a major regional power and a key partner for the bloc during her high-level visit to Islamabad. The visit signals a growing commitment from both sides to strengthen cooperation across a range of strategic areas.
During her meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, discussions focused on enhancing political dialogue, expanding economic ties, and exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration on regional and international issues. Both sides emphasized the value of continued engagement in an increasingly complex global environment.
Kallas also met Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, highlighting the European Union’s broad engagement with Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership. The discussions included regional security, stability, and the importance of maintaining constructive diplomatic channels during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
Regional diplomacy featured prominently during the visit, with Kallas acknowledging Pakistan’s role in facilitating engagement between the United States and Iran. Trade relations were also a key focus, as the European Union remains Pakistan’s largest export market, while Pakistan continues to benefit from the GSP Plus trade framework. The visit reflects growing European interest in strengthening long-term cooperation with Pakistan amid shifting global dynamics and evolving regional challenges.
