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ISLAMABAD, Dec 18 (APP):The European Union (EU)-Pakistan 15th Joint Commission was held in Brussels, reviewing political and economic developments and advancing cooperation in democracy, trade, development, climate, migration, and technology under the Strategic Engagement Plan, while reaffirming their commitment to regional stability.
According to press release issued by Economic Affairs Ministry here Thursday, the meetings of the Sub-Groups on Democracy and Human Rights, Trade, and Development Cooperation were held in advance of the Joint Commission.
These discussions focused on strengthening cooperation under GSP+, improving the business environment, advancing governance and human rights reforms, and aligning development cooperation with Pakistan’s national priorities and the EU’s Multiannual Indicative Programme (MIP).
In the area of development cooperation, both sides reaffirmed priority areas of green inclusive growth, human capital development, and governance.
Pakistan welcomed continued EU and Team Europe support for climate resilience and sustainable development.
On the margins of the Joint Commission, the European Investment Bank (EIB) signed a EUR 60 million credit financing agreement in water sector.
After 2015 it is first loan signed with EIB which is aimed at supporting priority water and sanitation infrastructure projects. Pakistan expressed interest in continued EIB support for development projects of national importance.
The Joint Commission also reviewed progress under the EU–Pakistan Comprehensive Dialogue on Migration and Mobility, including cooperation on return and readmission and legal migration pathways under the Talent Partnership.
Both sides welcomed recent high-level engagements, including the 7th Strategic Dialogue held in Brussels on 21 November 2025.
The EU and Pakistan exchanged views on regional and global developments and reiterated the importance of peaceful conflict resolution in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.
The Plenary Session of the Joint Commission was co-chaired by Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs of Pakistan, and Ms Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific, European External Action Service.
It was agreed that the next session of the EU–Pakistan Joint Commission will be held in Islamabad in 2026.