President Zardari thanks EU for its economic support

BRUSSELS, June 17:: President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday lauded European Union for its support to Pakistan and its democratically elected government at the first ever Pakistan‑EU summit as the European bloc praised the country’s commitment to fight extremists and assured continuing economic help. “I thank the EU and I thank the world for its support to democracy and war (on terror) that Pakistan is fighting in Pakistan,” he said at a press stake‑out after addressing the summit meeting here.

The President expressed his gratitude to the EU for its 124 million Euro aid for the IDPs.

He said the EU engagement with Pakistan reflects its appreciation for democracy and that no dictator ever will be welcome in the EU.

Replying to a question, the President said that the process of IDPs return had already started and recently around 1,000 men left for their homes to harvest the crops.

He said the army operation has the political ownership and made it clear that army was not carrying out the action against the militants on its own.

Czech Republic President Vaclav Klaus said that they had serious talks with President Zardari and the EU supported the democratic government in Pakistan.

He categorically stated that EU was ready to help Pakistan in the areas of economy, trade, and opening of European markets.

He said the summit was historical and hoped it conveyed a positive message across the world.

“We are aware of the difficult situation inside Pakistan and the surrounding region,” Klaus added.

He said after the summit meeting, he felt that Pakistan and EU have moved forward on a number of “concrete issues”.

“I consider the meeting friendly and positive.”

President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso said he feels that very positive results have been achieved at the summit.

He welcomed President Zardari’s determination to challenge the militants in NWFP and said the EU realizes the sufferings of the people who have been displaced by the military operation in Swat.

He said the EU will enhance the emergency relief assistance to Pakistan from current seven million euros to 72 million euros to help the displaced people in the camps.

He said he had a detailed discussion with President Zardari on how to help the displaced persons and for reconstruction and rehabilitation in the troubled areas of Swat and Malakand.

He said negotiations on Free Trade Agreement will open in future.

European Union High Representative Javier Solana said they fully realize that Pakistan need help and will continue to support it in every way the EU can.

“We will continue to help not only economically but also politically,” he added.

Solana, who is expected to visit Pakistan within the next three weeks, said the issues of terrorism and regional situation with reference to Afghanistan, Iran and India were also comprehensively discussed. (APP)