05 December 2004	Sunday	22 Shawwal 1425

ISLAMABAD, Dec 4: The newly acceding member states of the European Union -Poland, Czech Republic and Hungary - have agreed to undertake efforts to structure and improve the existing framework, which should allow freer flow of trade with Pakistan.

This was stated by the Vice Minister of Trade, Economic and Employment of Poland Miroslaw Zielinski, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Czech Republic Martin Tlapa and State Secretary Ministry of Economy and Transport of Hungary Dr Tibor Szanyi in a meeting with visiting Pakistan's Commerce Secretary Tasneem Noorani.

According to an official announcement issued here on Saturday during the visit of secretary commerce to these countries a wide range of bilateral trade and economic matters were discussed in an atmosphere of cordiality and complete understanding of each others position on the bilateral and multilateral trade dynamics.

The three EU member countries appreciated Pakistan's role in its resilient fight against drug production and trafficking and now since 9/11 having mounted a bloody fight against international terrorism.

It was recognized that Pakistan was shouldering more than its due share of responsibilities on its rather weak shoulders.

In doing so, Pakistan was also preventing the carnage from spreading to other parts of the world. In recognition of these efforts, the three new member states assured their full support.

These countries shared the view that the present levels of trade between Pakistan and their respective countries did not match the existing real potential of doing business with each country.

Mr Noorani extended invitation to all the three ministers to visit Pakistan and attend the first ever mega event Expo Pakistan to be held in Karachi from February 2-5, 2005.

Leaders of prominent business houses from each country have been requested to accompany the official delegation. This would be an ideal opportunity for them to see, feel and negotiate deals both for their exports and imports under one roof.

The visit of the Pakistan's Commerce Secretary assumes greater relevance and importance in view of Poland, Czech Republic and Hungary having recently joined the European Union on May 1, 2004 as part of the EU enlargement.