BRUSSELS, May 1: Efforts are under way to put relations between Pakistan and the European Union on a warmer footing, with diplomats from both sides hoping for an early approval of an EU- Pakistan trade and cooperation pact signed by the two sides in November 2001, but still pending ratification by the European Parliament.

Discussions this week at the Parliament’s influential foreign affairs committee showed support among many deputies for a visit to Islamabad in June by Euro MP John Cushnahan who is currently “rapporteur” on Pakistan for the EU assembly and was also leader of the bloc’s electoral observation mission which monitored last year’s Pakistani polls and said some aspects of the vote were flawed.

Mr Cushnahan was not immediately available for comment but diplomats said his visit to Islamabad and expected contacts with government representatives, opposition leaders and parliamentarians could help ease the EU assembly’s concerns over Pakistan’s commitment to democracy and human rights.

Discussions are expected to focus especially on the Legal Framework Order (LFO), with Mr Cushnahan expected to report back to the EU Parliament on his findings.

Although prospects for approval of the EU-Pakistan pact are looking brighter, the EU diplomats warn that Islamabad should not expect any easy ride in the Parliament. Many deputies remain sceptical of Pakistan’s determination to fight terrorism although sources said Mr Cushnahan this week publicly praised President Musharraf for his bold efforts to curb terror.

There are concerns about women’s rights in Pakistan and the role of the military in the country’s political life.

EU governments are also worried about the continuing Indian- Pakistani tensions over Kashmir although diplomats say many are relieved at signs that the two countries may finally resume a dialogue on the issue.