Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling the requirements of the European Union’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) program, with Federal Minister for Law and Human Rights Azam Nazeer Tarar assuring European diplomats that the government will continue implementing legal reforms and strengthening human rights protections.
The commitment was made during a meeting in Islamabad between the minister and a European Union delegation led by EU Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis. The delegation also included ambassadors from Sweden, Norway, France, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic, along with Ireland’s chargé d’affaires, Canada’s high commissioner, and senior Canadian officials.
Focus on Human Rights and Legal Reforms
The meeting reviewed Pakistan’s progress under the GSP+ framework, with discussions covering human rights, the rule of law, and broader Pakistan-EU relations. Both sides emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and regular dialogue to support the implementation of Pakistan’s international commitments.
European diplomats welcomed several recent initiatives taken by Pakistan, including the establishment of the National Commission for Minorities and the enactment of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act. They also discussed developments related to the death penalty moratorium and Pakistan’s wider human rights obligations.
Government Pledges Continued Reforms
Minister Tarar briefed the delegation on the government’s ongoing legal and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening fundamental rights, improving access to justice, and reinforcing the rule of law. He reaffirmed that Pakistan remains committed to protecting human rights while ensuring that counterterrorism measures are implemented in accordance with the Constitution and the law.
The minister also emphasized Pakistan’s willingness to continue constructive engagement with the European Union on legal reforms, human rights, and GSP+ implementation. The meeting concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction over the ongoing dialogue and agreeing to maintain close cooperation in the future.
