After attending SCO summit in Moscow, Dar arrives in Brussels for Pakistan-EU dialogue Azad News HD

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Pakistan–EU Strategic Engagement: Ishaq Dar’s Three-Day Visit to Belgium After the SCO Summit in Moscow


Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s diplomatic calendar this week reflects a carefully calibrated foreign policy strategy—one that positions Pakistan as an active, engaged, and forward-looking participant in global and regional affairs. After concluding his participation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Moscow, Dar arrived in Belgium on Wednesday for a significant three-day visit that includes attendance at the seventh Pakistan–European Union (EU) Strategic Dialogue. While such engagements might appear routine within the diplomatic sphere, the timing, context, and geopolitical backdrop of Dar’s back-to-back visits reveal a deeper story: Pakistan’s quest to secure economic stability, strengthen geopolitical partnerships, upgrade its voice in multilateral institutions, and expand the contours of its cooperation with Europe.

This article explores the political, strategic, and economic implications of Ishaq Dar’s engagements, unpacks the evolving nature of Pakistan–EU relations, and situates the visit within the larger context of Pakistan’s foreign policy trajectory. It also highlights how the SCO summit participation complements Pakistan’s outreach to Europe, how global developments influence these partnerships, and what Pakistan seeks to secure moving forward.

From Moscow to Brussels: A Diplomatically High-Value Sequence

The scheduling of Dar’s two high-level engagements—first at the SCO summit and then in Brussels—signals a deliberate diplomatic rhythm. It demonstrates Pakistan’s intention to simultaneously strengthen ties with Eurasian partners and Western institutions. This twin-track approach is not new, but it has become increasingly important as Pakistan navigates global economic headwinds, shifting geopolitical alliances, and internal development challenges.

Dar’s presence at the SCO summit in Moscow underlined Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation on security, trade, connectivity, counterterrorism, and energy. The SCO—a bloc led by China and Russia and also involving Central Asian states, India, and others—has become a pivotal multilateral forum where regional strategies, especially concerning Eurasia, are shaped.

Shortly after the Moscow engagement, Dar’s arrival in Belgium marks Pakistan’s pivot to its European partnerships. Belgium serves as the political heart of the EU, home to key institutions including the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European External Action Service (EEAS). A strategic dialogue here offers Pakistan an opportunity not only to advance bilateral ties but also to engage directly with the policymakers who shape the EU’s foreign policy, trade regulations, aid frameworks, and global stance.

This deliberate diplomatic sequencing sends an unmistakable message: Pakistan aims to diversify its global relationships and avoid overdependence on a single geopolitical bloc. The dual engagements highlight an emerging strategy of balanced diplomacy—a hallmark of states seeking resilience in an increasingly polarized world.

The Seventh Pakistan–EU Strategic Dialogue: Why It Matters

The Pakistan–EU Strategic Dialogue, now in its seventh iteration, is a structured mechanism that allows both sides to review progress, chart future cooperation, and resolve pending issues. Unlike one-off meetings, a dialogue format ensures continuity and accountability across multiple sectors.

1. Trade and GSP+ Renewal

The EU is one of Pakistan’s largest trade partners, particularly through the GSP+ (Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus) program, which allows Pakistan’s exports—especially textiles—to enter European markets duty-free.
Securing the renewal and expansion of GSP+ benefits is critical for Pakistan’s economy. This year’s dialogue is expected to address:

  • Compliance with human rights conventions

  • Labour and environmental standards

  • Industrial cooperation

  • Export diversification

  • Support for Pakistan’s SMEs seeking entry into European markets

Given Pakistan’s pressing need for foreign exchange and export-led growth, the GSP+ scheme is an economic lifeline that Islamabad cannot afford to lose.

2. Security and Counterterrorism Cooperation

Europe sees Pakistan as a key partner in global counterterrorism efforts. With rising concerns about security in the region—particularly Afghanistan’s instability, an uptick in cross-border militancy, and global terror networks—Pakistan’s collaboration with the EU on intelligence sharing, border security, and counter-extremism strategies remains essential.

3. Migration, Mobility, and Skilled Labour Pathways

Pakistan is home to one of the world’s largest diasporas, and Europe remains a preferred destination for both skilled and semi-skilled migrants. The dialogue is expected to address:

  • Legal migration frameworks

  • Agreements on repatriation and readmission

  • Increasing EU scholarships for Pakistani students

  • Introducing more high-skilled mobility pathways

  • Devising joint policies to prevent human smuggling and trafficking

4. Climate Adaptation and Green Economy Cooperation

Pakistan is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. The EU, on the other hand, is a global leader in climate action. Key themes include:

  • Green energy transition

  • Water management

  • Climate resilience financing

  • Disaster risk reduction

  • Environmental governance reforms

Climate cooperation has become a strategic pillar of Pakistan–EU relations.

5. Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights

The EU places strong emphasis on governance reforms, transparency, electoral processes, and fundamental freedoms. Pakistan, in turn, seeks to maintain constructive engagement with the EU to:

  • Strengthen democratic institutions

  • Ensure continued access to EU development funds

  • Build credibility in human rights forums

Dar’s leadership in these conversations signals Pakistan’s readiness to engage in a transparent dialogue on sensitive issues.

Pakistan’s Broader Goals Behind the Visit

While the stated agenda focuses on dialogue and cooperation, Pakistan’s broader objectives extend further.

1. Economic Stabilization Through Diplomacy

Pakistan is in the midst of a demanding economic recovery. Diplomatic engagements like these are essential for:

  • Securing trade concessions

  • Attracting European investment

  • Expanding export capacity

  • Opening new trade routes

  • Encouraging EU companies to enter Pakistani markets

2. Strengthening Pakistan’s Global Image

International perception directly affects investment flows, foreign policy partnerships, and diaspora opportunities. Dar’s diplomatic outreach aims to:

  • Demonstrate Pakistan’s political stability

  • Highlight economic reform measures

  • Improve international confidence

  • Counter negative narratives in global forums

3. Enhancing Energy and Connectivity Projects

As Pakistan seeks to reduce its dependence on volatile fuel imports, partnerships with European energy firms—particularly in renewable energy—have become crucial. The dialogue provides opportunities to attract investment in:

  • Solar and wind projects

  • Green hydrogen technology

  • Upgraded electricity transmission systems

  • EU-funded infrastructure

4. Building a Long-Term Institutional Partnership

The EU’s global influence on trade norms, regulatory standards, and financial flows cannot be overstated. Pakistan’s relationship with Europe is not merely bilateral—it involves aligning Pakistan with evolving international standards.

The SCO Summit Context: A Complementary Strategic Track

Dar’s participation in the SCO summit immediately before his arrival in Belgium adds an important contextual layer.

The SCO represents Pakistan’s strategic positioning within the Eurasian region. Several themes overlap with Pakistan–EU cooperation, including:

  • Counterterrorism

  • Regional security

  • Trade diversification

  • Infrastructure connectivity

  • Climate adaptation

But the SCO’s leadership—China and Russia—also shapes its geopolitical character, sometimes differing from Western approaches. By balancing engagement with the SCO and the EU, Pakistan ensures that its foreign policy does not become overly dependent on any single power bloc.

The Importance of Timing: A Moment of Geopolitical Flux

Dar’s Belgium visit comes at a time when:

  • Europe is recalibrating its relations with the Global South

  • Global supply chains are being reshaped

  • EU migration policies are evolving

  • International energy markets remain volatile

  • Democracies worldwide face institutional stresses

  • Climate impacts are intensifying across South Asia

For Pakistan, this moment offers a rare opportunity to frame itself as a constructive partner—one that Europe views as stable, reform-oriented, and economically promising.

Pakistan–EU Relations: A Historical and Strategic Perspective

Pakistan’s relationship with the EU has evolved over several decades. Important milestones include:

1. Cooperation Agreement of 1976

This agreement laid the foundation for Pakistan–EU economic relations, particularly in trade and development.

2. GSP and GSP+ Regimes

Over time, Europe has become Pakistan’s most valuable export market, especially for textiles.

3. Strategic Dialogue Framework

Introduced to elevate the relationship beyond trade, this framework addresses:

  • Security

  • Development cooperation

  • Governance reforms

  • Climate and humanitarian issues

4. Post-Flood Climate Engagement

The devastating 2022 floods prompted strong EU support for Pakistan’s climate resilience and humanitarian relief.

Dar’s visit seeks to consolidate these historic gains.

Key Outcomes Expected From the Seventh Strategic Dialogue

While the final outcomes will unfold after the meeting, analysts anticipate progress in several areas:

1. Potential GSP+ Extension Negotiations

EU officials and Pakistan’s delegation are expected to discuss:

  • Compliance assessments

  • Human rights obligations

  • Monitoring frameworks

Successful negotiations could significantly boost Pakistan’s export competitiveness.

2. Enhanced Climate Financing

Pakistan hopes to secure new commitments under the EU’s climate initiatives, especially in:

  • Renewable energy projects

  • Flood resilience programs

  • Green infrastructure development

3. Expanded Educational and Technological Cooperation

New programs may include:

  • Research collaboration between universities

  • Digital literacy and innovation partnerships

  • Scholarships under Horizon Europe and Erasmus+

4. Broader Strategic Partnership Roadmap

Both sides may work toward updating the Joint Strategic Engagement Plan (JSEP), expanding cooperation to new fields such as:

  • Artificial intelligence governance

  • Cybersecurity

  • Agricultural modernization

  • Food security systems

Ishaq Dar’s Diplomatic Significance

As Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar plays a central role in shaping Pakistan’s global outreach. His responsibilities include:

  • Managing Pakistan’s foreign policy direction

  • Representing Pakistan at multilateral forums

  • Restoring international confidence in Pakistan’s economy

  • Securing financial and strategic partnerships

  • Enhancing Pakistan’s voice in global governance

Dar’s financial expertise also uniquely positions him to secure economic partnerships that integrate foreign policy with fiscal stability.

A Vision for a Modern Pakistan–EU Partnership

The long-term vision underpinning Pakistan’s engagement with the EU includes:

1. A more diversified economy integrated with European markets

Textiles currently dominate Pakistan’s exports. The goal is to expand into:

  • IT and digital services

  • Agriculture and food processing

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Minerals and rare earth processing

  • Renewable energy equipment

2. A climate-resilient, green-transitioning Pakistan

Europe’s expertise can help Pakistan modernize its energy mix.

3. A stable regional role for Pakistan

Europe increasingly recognizes Pakistan’s role in:

  • Afghan peace

  • Counterterrorism

  • Regional stability

  • Trade corridors

4. A digital partnership

The EU’s Digital Decade framework opens space for Pakistan to:

  • Expand IT outsourcing

  • Train youth in high-tech skills

  • Attract European tech companies

Conclusion: A High-Impact Diplomatic Moment

Ishaq Dar’s three-day visit to Belgium following the SCO summit in Moscow is more than a routine diplomatic itinerary—it reflects Pakistan’s evolving foreign policy strategy, grounded in economic priorities, geopolitical pragmatism, and global engagement. By balancing engagement with both Eurasian and European partners, Pakistan signals its intention to operate as a versatile and proactive state within the international system.

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