Pakistan Raises Regional and Global Concerns at DSAS Meeting in Strasbourg

Charge d’Affaires of Pakistan, Faraz Zaidi to the European Union, underscored significant regional and global challenges at the Delegation for Relations with the Countries of South Asia (DSAS) meeting in Strasbourg on Thursday. This marked the first engagement with the newly elected European Parliament, bringing South Asian diplomats together to discuss pressing issues.

Faraz Zaidi emphasized South Asia’s strategic importance and vast economic potential, while reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing relationship with the European Union. He highlighted the success of the GSP Plus trade scheme, emphasizing its benefits for both sides and Pakistan’s commitment to further cooperation in trade, technology, and culture.

Turning to regional concerns, Zaidi called attention to the unresolved Kashmir issue, stressing its negative impact on regional stability. He called for international focus on human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K) and advocated for global intervention to address the conflict.

Zaidi also tackled broader global challenges, reaffirming Pakistan’s stance on climate change and its willingness to work with the EU on facilitating legal migration. He urged a collaborative approach to resolve security and humanitarian crises in Afghanistan, particularly regarding terrorism emanating from the region.

On the Palestinian issue, Zaidi lauded the EU’s principled position and expressed hope that sustained efforts would lead to a fair resolution based on international law and UN Resolutions, emphasizing the need for action to bring an end to the ongoing crisis.

In closing, Zaidi reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to deepen its partnership with the EU to address shared challenges and advance peace, prosperity, and sustainable development across the globe.