By Staff Correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding trade and investment cooperation with the European Union as a high-level EU delegation, accompanied by representatives of major European companies, praised Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and de-escalation efforts in the Middle East.
The meeting took place at the Prime Minister House, where the premier welcomed the visiting delegation participating in the EU-Pakistan Business Forum, describing the event as an important platform for enhancing economic engagement and fostering stronger partnerships between Pakistan and European markets.
The delegation was led by Peteris Ustubs, Director for Asia Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, and included Thourya Triki of the European Investment Bank along with senior executives from leading European companies. Among those present were Manuel Pauser, Vice President of Adidas, Karl Schloegelbauer, Vice President of Andritz, and Dieter Metkke, Regional Director of IKEA. European Union Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis was also present.
Welcoming the delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked European representatives for their participation in the business forum and underscored the significance of Pakistan’s economic partnership with the EU, which he described as the country’s largest trading partner and the destination for the highest volume of Pakistani exports.
He said the forum would help unlock new avenues for bilateral trade, investment and industrial collaboration, while expressing hope that engagement with European businesses would translate into stronger commercial partnerships and increased foreign investment in Pakistan.
The prime minister assured the delegation that his government remains committed to facilitating business growth, improving the investment climate and undertaking reforms aimed at strengthening economic stability and investor confidence. He noted that despite regional and global economic challenges, Pakistan is continuing efforts to stabilize its economy and pursue sustainable growth.
Referring to recent developments in the Middle East and the resulting spike in oil prices, the prime minister said Pakistan remains focused on navigating external challenges while maintaining its reform agenda and protecting economic recovery. He emphasized that expanding ties with reliable international partners such as the EU is critical for Pakistan’s long-term economic progress.
Members of the European delegation appreciated the government’s support in organizing the EU-Pakistan Business Forum and praised the prime minister’s efforts in promoting peace and supporting de-escalation in the Middle East. They acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in encouraging dialogue and regional stability, noting that such efforts contribute positively to broader international peace initiatives.
The delegation also expressed interest in expanding cooperation in trade, industry, sustainability and investment, while reaffirming the willingness of European institutions and businesses to deepen engagement with Pakistan. Representatives from major European firms discussed prospects for increased collaboration in manufacturing, infrastructure, retail, renewable energy and development partnerships.
Officials said the discussions reflected growing momentum in Pakistan-EU relations and highlighted shared interest in expanding economic connectivity. The meeting also reinforced the importance both sides place on stronger trade relations, investment facilitation and long-term strategic cooperation.
The visit of the European delegation and participation of leading global companies in the business forum is being seen as a positive signal for Pakistan’s economic diplomacy and efforts to attract international investment. Observers say the engagement could pave the way for greater commercial opportunities and deeper institutional cooperation between Pakistan and the European Union.
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