Supporting democracy in Pakistan with the EU

I’ve been thinking about how Pakistan is another area where EU collective action and UK foreign policy complement each other in a country that matters to us.

As the world’s largest single market, diplomacy based on trade is a major strength for the EU. As a block formed of 27 states, the EU is able to offer Pakistan real political support. As a global advocate of democracy and human rights, supporting Pakistan’s emerging democracy is a natural fit.

The EU has been busy in its relationship with Pakistan; earlier this month, High Representative Cathy Ashton visited Islamabad and then on Monday, the Foreign Affairs Council followed up on her visit with a discussion of Pakistan, highlighted in Council Conclusions.

On both occasions, the EU offered poltical support for Pakistan’s election as a sign of democratic progress and practical support through election monitors. The EU also reaffirmed its commitment to improve Pakistan’s market access to the EU and raised the possibility of a third EU-Pakistan Summit.

And of course, Pakistan is close to the UK’s heart. We have a shared history, close personal connections between our citizens, a crucial partnership against terrorism and on other security issues. Our country has an unswerving commitment to Pakistan’s development and to its democratic future.

Pakistan is entering a period of great political importance and sensitivity. Elections, due by May next year, could be the first in Pakistan’s history in which one civilian government completed its term and passed power peacefully to another. This would be a major milestone in the democratic development of Pakistan.

The whole of Europe has an interest in stronger democratic institutions and a dynamic economy in Pakistan. For the United Kingdom, a strong, committed EU policy towards Pakistan, a policy that we have been active in shaping, is an immensely valuable complement to our bilateral work. I want to see Europe continue and strengthen its efforts to help the people of Pakistan to build a prosperous and secure future for their country.