Ayaz Sadiq appreciates support of EU in providing economic assistance for the development projects

ISLAMABAD, June 01 (SABAH): Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq warmly welcomed Thomas Seiler, Charge d’ Affairs of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Ministry of Economic Affairs in Islamabad on Wednesday. Matters of mutual interest were discussed in the meeting.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq appreciated the support of EU in providing economic assistance for the development projects in Rural Development, Natural Resource Management, Education and Human Resource Development and giving GSP+ status to Pakistan. Thomas Seiler also acknowledged the economic potential of Pakistan and appreciated the commitment of the Government of Pakistan for working in greater collaboration with the EU.

Minister further appreciated the adaption of Multi Indicative Programme (MIP) 2021-2017 for Pakistan amounting 265 Million euros including development cooperation in areas of green Inclusive Growth, Human Capital, Governance and Support Measures. The importance of peace and security in Afghanistan for stability in Pakistan was also discussed in the meeting. As Minister stressed that engagement on this matter is the need of the hour owing that the spillover is too dangerous for the overall development of the country. Minister further expressed the need to extend the areas of cooperation and assistance in new avenues especially in newly merged district of FATA to ensure equal participation in inclusive growth of Pakistan. He also proposed cooperation in sectors of Human Resource Development through initiatives in Education and Skills Development along with strengthening SMEs.

Minister further stated his desire to the EU to initiate On-Budget projects with greater involvement of the Government of Pakistan. Minister assured future collaboration and expressed gratitude to Thomas Seiler for taking out his precious time and visiting the Ministry to discuss matters of mutual interest.

The meeting was attended by the officials from the European Union and Senior officials of the Ministry.

Meanwhile Sardar Ayaz Sadiq warmly welcomed the Ambassador of Czech Republic to Pakistan, Tomas Smetanka in Ministry of Economic Affairs in Islamabad on Wednesday. Matters of mutual interests were discussed in the meeting.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq expressed that Pakistan and Czech Republic enjoys a friendly and cordial relationship and a lot potential exist to enhance the relationship between both nations. Minister discussed the potential sectors on which collaboration is needed. He stressed on the exchange of trade delegations that can help in promoting and enhancing economic and trade relations.

Tomas Smetanka discussed the signing of Economic Cooperation Agreement that will further enhance the economic cooperation between two nations. Minister appreciated the effort and assured the steady process of the signing of the agreement. Also, he indicated that Agreement on Economic Cooperation will be a step forward towards the establishment of Joint Commission and closer friendly relations. Minister also suggested the reviving of the cooperation between Chamber of Commerce and Industries of the two countries that would be helpful in promoting business contacts. Minister assured future collaboration and support and expressed gratitude to Tomas Smetanka for taking out his time and visit the Ministry to discuss matters of mutual interest.