In a significant move to bolster bilateral economic ties, Jeroen Willems, the Head of Cooperation for the European Union in Pakistan, held a high-level meeting with Ambassador Rahim Hayat Qureshi on March 15, 2026. The discussions centered on the strategic roadmap for the upcoming Pakistan-EU Business Forum, scheduled to take place in Islamabad from April 28–29, 2026.
Scaling the Pakistan-EU Business Forum
The meeting served as a precursor to the landmark forum, which is expected to bring together hundreds of European companies and Pakistani stakeholders. Both officials emphasized the importance of the event in unlocking new investment opportunities under the EU Global Gateway initiative.
Key focus areas for the April summit include:
Sustainable Textiles: Leveraging circular economy models for the garment industry.
Green Logistics: Enhancing connectivity and climate resilient transport.
Agri Business: Modernizing food value chains through European technology.
Reviewing the Cooperation Portfolio
Beyond the forum, Willems and Ambassador Qureshi reviewed the current state of the EU Pakistan cooperation portfolio. This covers a multi-sectoral approach including development aid, digital innovation, and security.
A major point of discussion was the continuation of the GSP+ status, which has been a cornerstone of Pakistan’s export strategy to the European market. The officials explored avenues to diversify Pakistan’s export basket beyond textiles to ensure long-term economic stability.
Strengthening Economic Partnership
The interaction concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening the economic partnership between the two regions. By focusing on technical and vocational training (TVET) and renewable energy, the EU aims to support Pakistan’s transition toward a modernized, export led economy.
Ambassador Qureshi, who was recently promoted to Grade 22, continues to lead Pakistan's diplomatic efforts in Brussels, ensuring that national priorities align with international trade standards.
PAA FAQs
When is the Pakistan-EU Business Forum 2026? The forum is scheduled to be held in Islamabad on April 28 and 29, 2026, focusing on trade, investment, and high level networking.
What is the role of GSP+ in Pakistan-EU trade? The GSP (Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus) allows Pakistan to export goods to the EU at zero or reduced duties, significantly boosting the textile and clothing sectors.
Who is Rahim Hayat Qureshi? Rahim Hayat Qureshi is Pakistan’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union, responsible for managing key diplomatic and economic relations in Brussels.
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