Islamabad – The European Union has recently expressed its support for the steps Pakistan is taking to fulfil its international obligations under the GSP+ Trade Status framework.
The Pakistani and European officials met in the 15th Pakistan-EU Joint Commission meeting in Brussels on December 17 and discussed the management of the country regarding the 27 international conventions.
The special trade arrangement is crucial to the economy of Pakistan, as two-thirds of its exports to Europe will be shipped duty-free, and its textile industry will be severely improved as a result since the initial agreement was awarded in 2014.
According to the Foreign Office, the EU in particular was pleased with the progress achieved in harmonizing the death penalty with international norms and applauded the first steps to stop torture.
The formation of a Commission on Minorities was also viewed as an encouraging step in the direction of good governance. Maintaining the GSP+ Trade Status is, however, an ongoing process and requires daily maintenance.
The EU urged Pakistan to also do more short-term steps before the next monitoring report, which will examine more closely the functioning of these laws on the ground to defend ordinary citizens.
Dialogue on Rights and Freedoms
One of the key issues of the discussion was the humane aspect of governance, such as the freedom of the media and the independence of the courts.
Both parties discussed the need to safeguard vulnerable populations and the need to fight against such practices as enforced disappearances and freedom of speech.
To maintain the GSP+ Trade Status safe until 2027, Pakistan needs to demonstrate that it is not only making laws but also building a society that values human rights.
The government posted information about its National Action Plans, demonstrating that it is willing to change the lives of women, children, and minority groups.
The EU Ambassador to Pakistan has already mentioned that there is progress, but more is yet to be done.
The next review mission will be a key opportunity to determine whether the changes are profound enough to meet the international requirements.
Maintaining the GSP+ Trade Status is not merely a matter of trade but the future where good governance and human rights are in tandem with economic growth.
