ISLAMABAD: The European Union and Pakistan on Thursday agreed to deepen dialogue and discussions on security related issues.

The understanding was reached during the 10th Political Dialogue between the EU and Pakistan in Brussels. The dialogue covered key issues in EU-Pakistan cooperation, as well as regional and international issues, including multilateral cooperation.

The EU and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of Strategic Engagement Plan signed in 2019, aiming to further deepen cooperation in all areas covered under the SEP.

The two sides reiterated their resolve to continue close engagement under the GSP+ framework. They acknowledged the meaningful cooperation on various aspects of migration, aiming to hold the third Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Dialogue later this year.

Besides bilateral cooperation, both sides exchanged views on regional and global issues. They acknowledged the importance of multifaceted cooperation on security matters, including counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics. They condemned all forms of terrorism.

Both sides exchange views on regional, global matters, including Kashmir and Gaza

Both sides agreed on the need for efforts based on dialogue and diplomacy to solve contentious issues and underscored the importance of upholding international law and the sanctity of international agreements.

They exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine as well as India-held Kashmir. Both sides stressed the need to find peaceful solutions to conflicts in accordance with the principles of international law and the UN Charter.

They agreed on the urgent need to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Both sides called for the resumption of a ceasefire, and expressed support for initiatives that contribute to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Palestine in accordance with the two-state solution.

The two sides reaffirmed their aspiration to convene the 7th Strategic Dialogue in 2025, underscoring its importance in strengthening Pakistan-EU cooperation. They agreed to hold the next Political Dialogue meeting in Islamabad next year.

The EU delegation was headed by Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service Olof Skoog, while the Pakistani team was led by Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch.

Published in Dawn, July 18th, 2025