07 October 2004	Thursday	21 Shaban 1425

ISLAMABAD, Oct 6: Federal Commerce Minister, Humayun Akhtar Khan has urged for continued availability of concession for Pakistani exports, particularly after the textile quotas phase-out from January 1, 2005 , under the generalised system of preferences (GSP).

The minister stated this in a meeting with Commissioner-designate Trade to the European Commission, Peter Mandelson at New York to discuss a wide range of matters relating to trade and economic co-operation, according to an official announcement released to media here on Wednesday.

The commerce minister explained and sensitized the future commissioner who would be taking over his new responsibilities on November 1, 2004. He emphasized the necessity and need for European Commission's understanding and proactive support to enable Pakistan to sustain their market share particularly for textiles.

Mr Khan welcomed and appreciated the initiative taken by Commissioner Trade of the European Commission, Pascal Lamy to consult Pakistan before finalizing their 2006-2015 GSP scheme. Pakistan strongly advocates the linkage of market access and GSP benefit to the special development need of the developing countries, he said.

The commissioner-designate expressed keen interest in the politico-economic developments in Pakistan and appreciated the role Pakistan was playing in fighting terrorism. He showed his understanding of the ongoing issues relating to trade and economic co-operation between Pakistan and European Union.