Pakistan amongst countries affected by second wave of COVID-19, says Qureshi

(Karachi) Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan is amongst those countries which is affected by second wave of novel coronavirus, Radio Pakistan reported.

Addressing the Fifth Round of Pakistan-European Union Strategic Dialogue through video link on Tuesday, he said that Pakistan has taken adequate measures to curb spread of COVID-19. He stated that smark lockdown policy was adopted as part of efforts to contain the deadly outbreak.

Qureshi highlighted that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government is taking measures for the welfare of a common man.

EU largest trading hub

He said that European Union is the largest trading block in the world. The FM appreciated EU's step to provide relief in trade activities to under developed countries. He said that boosting trade will help poor countries to improve their economies.

FATF requirements

Shah Mahmood said that Pakistan is trying its best to fulfil the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). "Pakistan has fulfilled 21 out of 27 FATF requirements while efforts are on to achieve the remaining six obligations," he said.

He mentioned that 14 European Union States are a part of the FATF.

Climate change

Regarding climate change, Qureshi said, "Green energy is one of the priorities of the government and we also initiated Billion Tree project to counter the effects of climate change." He said global efforts are needed to address the issue of changing weather conditions.

Islamophobia

Qureshi apprised his EU counterpart Josep Borrell about concerns of Muslims all over the world, including Pakistan, regarding rising Islamophobia in some of EU countries.

The foreign minister expressed concerns on the current rise of Islamophobia, racism and hate speech in Europe. He said, "It is essential to initiate dialogue in true spirit to promote inter-faith harmony." He urged upon the international community to ‘build bridges and respect each other’s religions and beliefs’.

He stated some countries have implemented discriminatory laws and all stakeholders should sit together and address the issue.

The FM also condemned the attack in Vienna, saying such incidents are unacceptable.

Meanwhile, views were also exchanged on efforts for peace in Afghanistan during the meeting. Both the Foreign Ministers termed intra-Afghan dialogue as a milestone for durable peace in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi called upon the global community, including EU, to play its due role in resolution of Kashmir issue in accordance with UN Resolutions.

Expressing satisfaction on the Strategic Engagement Plan approved between Pakistan and EU last year, both sides agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation in fields of mutual interest.

The EU is a traditional friend of Pakistan and a major trading and investment partner. The relations between the two sides are pursued through regular high-level engagements, robust institutional arrangements and structured dialogues.

On October 6, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood and Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service Enrique Mora also held the sixth round of Pakistan-European Political Dialogue to advance bilateral cooperation.