Commerce Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan Friday said the GSP+ status had boosted Pakistan's exports to the Europe by 37% during the last three years. According to press statement received here, "The GSP+ status offers huge potential for enhancing mutual trade between Pakistan and the European Union," he said, during his meeting with Member of the Committee on International Trade (INTA), Jan Zahradil, in the European Parliament.
The export of machinery, chemicals and dyes from Europe to Pakistan, also increased by 14%, he said adding these products were required to meet the rising demand of Pakistani products particularly textiles and garments in the European markets.
The minister apprised Zahradil about various steps being taken by Pakistan to improve conditions of productions and achievements in terms of improving law and order and human rights in the country. He was of the view that focus of Pakistan had shifted towards strengthening its economy through trade rather than aid.
He accentuated correlation of economic progress with peace and stability of any country and said economic and social indicators were on the rise in Pakistan.
He also held meetings with Pakistani origin members of the European Parliament, Sajjad Karim, Chair of the Pakistan Friendship Group and Afzal Khan, Vice-Chair, Sub-committee on Security and Defence and appreciated their support for Pakistan in the European Parliament.