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| November 16, 2005 | Wednesday | Shawwal 13, 1426 |
UK urged to seek more EU market access for Pakistan
LONDON, Nov 15: The United Kingdom will offer its resolve to support the post-quake reconstruction in Pakistan during the international donors’ conference in Islamabad on Nov 19. The confirmation of British representation in the conference and its resolve to help in the reconstruction was given by Secretary for International Development Hilary Benn while answering questions from MPs about steps being taken by the European Union to boost economic recovery of Pakistan.
The record of the proceedings of the House of Commons showed that MPs had asked the British government to press upon the EU countries to consider trade measures as were resorted to after last year’s tsunami to improve market access and liberalize trade with Pakistan to promote economic recovery.
The MPs also suggested inclusion of Pakistan in the Generalized System of Preferences—plus, from which it was excluded earlier this year.
“I am sure that as the EU considers how it may provide support to the reconstruction process, it will be happy to look at all possible measures,” Mr Benn told the Commons.
He said Britain would make a commitment to support the reconstruction effort as it had played a role in helping to save the lives of those affected by the catastrophe.
In response to a question about the British government’s role as the president of the EU for securing a response from those member countries which failed to donate to the earthquake appeal, Mr Benn said: “Two days after the earthquake struck, we issued a presidency statement and I have now written twice to EU development ministers.”
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