Zardari Lauds EU Envoy Riina Kionka’s Role in Strengthening Ties

Reiterating Pakistan’s full commitment to the

Strategic Engagement Plan, President Zardari

said the two sides share common goals

Correspondent

Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its multidimensional partnership with the European Union during a farewell meeting with the outgoing Head of the EU Delegation to Pakistan, Dr. Riina Kionka, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Welcoming Dr. Kionka, President Zardari said Pakistan values its deep-rooted relations with the EU, emphasizing that a strong Pakistan-EU relationship plays a vital role in promoting regional stability and global security.

The President noted that the EU is one of Pakistan’s largest trade and investment partners, and stressed the vast potential for enhancing development cooperation, especially considering Pakistan’s large youth population and growing industrial sector.

He also expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to benefit from EU-led initiatives like Erasmus Mundus and Horizon Europe, which contribute to knowledge sharing and human resource development.

Reiterating Pakistan’s full commitment to the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan, President Zardari said the two sides share common goals in trade, development, climate change, migration, and regional peace—pillars that support a long-term and resilient partnership.

President Zardari congratulated Dr. Riina Kionka on her successful tenure and praised her contributions in strengthening bilateral ties. He also wished her success in her future assignments.