EU Ambassador’s encouraging remarks

_, May 10, 2011 (Pakistan Observer): IN an exclusive interview with this paper, Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark, Head of the Delegation of the European Union dwelt at length on EU’s growing influence both regionally and globally and desire to give more substance to its relations with Pakistan. The Ambassador, who recently assumed his new responsibilities, expressed resolve of the European Union to expand cooperation with Pakistan in economic, trade and social sectors.

With the passage of time, the European Union has not only expanded in its size but also in its influence and clout in the international relations. Regional integration apart, the EU has moved swiftly to diversify its relations with different countries of the world and that too on the principle of sovereign equality. Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark’s policy statement has very well been received in Pakistan, as it has brightened the prospects of taking Pakistan-EU relations to new heights.

As the ambassador has rich and varied experience in diplomacy and has a charming personality, we are confident that he would work more closely with Pakistani authorities in strengthening economic cooperation and ensuring more market access. The importance that the EU gives to Pakistan was also manifested by its decision to hold two exclusive summits with the country that have helped crystallize many issues and paved the way for comprehensive cooperation with the aim to engage in strategic dialogue as partners, including at the highest level.

They have also discussed, amongst other issues, security, humanitarian aid, energy, trade, development, and the global financial situation. We believe that there is great scope for expanding ties with EU, as luckily we do not have any bilateral dispute with any of the member of the powerful economic block. It is also important that unlike some other countries of the world, the EU assistance and cooperation has no strings attached to it and therefore, there is every reason for our policy-makers to look towards EU.