Hungary supports Pakistan’s GSP+ status beyond 2027

Islamabad: Pakistan and Hungary have agreed to expand cooperation in key sectors and strengthen collaboration at international platforms, including the United Nations, Radio Pakistan reported on Wednesday.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó in Islamabad.

Speaking at a joint press conference, Dar said the two countries shared common interests in areas such as agriculture, energy, healthcare, information technology, and industrial manufacturing. He highlighted the “vast potential” for boosting bilateral ties and described Hungary as a “steadfast and trusted friend.”

Dar thanked Hungary for its contributions to Pakistan’s development and expressed hope for further growth in their relationship. He also discussed regional issues with his Hungarian counterpart, including Pakistan’s stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, which Islamabad says should be resolved under UN Security Council resolutions. Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a two-state solution in Palestine.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Szijjártó supported the extension of Pakistan’s GSP+ trade status beyond 2027, calling it in the “mutual interest” of both Pakistan and the EU. He noted that Hungarian companies had already completed successful projects in Pakistan related to food security and water management.

He also announced 400 scholarships for Pakistani students and said a 17-member Hungarian business delegation had joined him to explore opportunities in education, agriculture, medical science, water management, and energy.

Szijjártó praised Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism, particularly against groups based in Afghanistan, saying it contributed to both regional and European security.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan and Hungary signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for diplomatic passport holders, along with two memoranda of understanding on cooperation in culture and archaeology.