Pakistan fulfilling obligations under GSP Plus framework: Salik

Islamabad
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, held a meeting with the European Union’s GSP Plus Monitoring Delegation. The delegation was led by the European Union’s Director General, Mr. Sergio Balibrea, and was accompanied by other senior EU officials.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on Pakistan’s progress in the areas of the GSP Plus framework, labour rights, environment, governance, and human resource development. On this occasion, Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain stated that Pakistan is fulfilling its international obligations under the GSP Plus framework with complete seriousness, transparency, and commitment.
He said that Pakistan’s partnership with the European Union is not limited to trade alone but also represents an important milestone in promoting reforms, strengthening institutions, and achieving sustainable development. The Federal Minister emphasized that Pakistan’s election as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council reflects the confidence of the international community in Pakistan.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain stated that the GSP Plus scheme is of immense importance for economic stability, promotion of exports, and particularly for the economic betterment of the labour class in Pakistan. He informed the delegation that the Government of Pakistan has significantly increased the minimum wage and is making every possible effort to ensure timely and full payment of wages to workers.
The Federal Minister further stated that the government is undertaking comprehensive reform measures for the protection of labour rights, workplace safety, social protection, and human resource development. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring full implementation of international labour conventions.
The European Union delegation appreciated Pakistan’s overall progress and stated that continuity of reforms in the areas of labour rights, environmental protection, and good governance is essential for maintaining GSP Plus status. The delegation also expressed confidence that Pakistan will further strengthen its reform efforts in this direction.
Both sides agreed to further enhance mutual cooperation and strengthen future engagements.
Federal Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry and Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed were also attended the meeting.