Lahore,
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with the European Union Ambassador H.E Dr. Riina Kionka and the delegation. The need to increase cooperation between the European Union and the Punjab government was emphasized in the meeting. The Chief Minister lauded the ongoing and proposed projects of the European Union and assured all possible cooperation on behalf of the Punjab government. Matters pertaining to government policies and measures to safeguard the rights of minorities, weak communities and other groups along with ensuring inter-religion harmony were discussed in the meeting. Matters relating to ongoing human development projects with the collaboration of European Union in Punjab also came under discussion. The prospects for enhancing exports to the European countries along with promoting investment in Pakistan were discussed in the meeting. The importance to launch joint efforts with regard to coping up with the hazardous and negative effects of climate change was stressed upon in the meeting. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif apprised Dr. Riina Kionka about the successful drive being launched by the Punjab government under the title ‘Chief Minister Plant for Pakistan’. Dr. Riina Kionka appreciated the efforts of CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif to cope up with the climate change effects. The CM said, “We are facing serious challenges of climate change and are working on a comprehensive policy. The government has established a ‘Smog Control Unit’ on a permanent basis. The Punjab government has launched eco-friendly metro buses so as to reduce carbon emissions. A ban has been imposed on the usage of plastic bags from the month of June in Punjab. An effective and latest ‘Vehicle Inspection & Certification System’ is being implemented to reduce smoke emission from the vehicles. The economic relations between Pakistan and the European Union are strong and multifaceted. We want to enhance textile exports to the European countries from Punjab. We also want to increase Punjab’s highest quality rice export to Europe. We will welcome European Union collaboration for the transfer of technology and improvement of basic structure. The targets of durable progress can be attained with the promotion of economic cooperation. The investors have been provided all the facilities under a single roof under ‘One Window Operation’.” Dr. Riina Kionka said, “The European Union is determined for the strengthening of Pakistan’s economy by undertaking measures like GSP Plus by the EU. The European Union plays an important role in Pakistan’s economic recovery by promoting its trade and investment. Implementation of conventions related to environmental protection, good governance, human rights, labour rights is essential for GSP Plus countries.” Senator Parvez Rasheed and Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb were also present in the meeting.
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