Shaheer Ahmed
Pakistan and Belgium’s ties can be traced back to the birth of Pakistan. There are many trade agreements and MoUs signed between both countries. On various occasions, Belgium has also provided financial help to Pakistan. Belgium has also helped to establish the Pakistan-EU Free Trade agreement. Recently, both countries have agreed to strengthen bilateral ties in different areas.
Belgium and Pakistan
Belgium is the country that recognized Pakistan early in 1948. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is the headquarters of the EU and NATO. It has a very important position in Western Europe. Some facts about Pakistan and Belgium are:
- Belgium is the sixth-largest European importer of Pakistani goods.
- The bilateral trade between the two is approximately US$600 million.
- Belgium provided financial help of €4.6 million to Pakistan during the 2010 floods.
- 19,247 Pakistanis live in Belgium.
- 666 Pakistanis have been granted Belgian citizenship. This is the highest number of South Asians living in Belgium.
Strengthening Bilateral ties
Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa was on an official visit to Belgium. He met Belgian Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder, Chief of Defence Admiral Michel Hofman, and Chief of Staff of Belgium’s Land Component Major General Pierre Gerard. They agreed to strengthen the military ties, which included defence production, training, counter-terrorism, and intelligence. Matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, and bilateral relations were discussed. The COAS said that “Pakistan values its bilateral relations with Belgium.”
According to the media wing, the ‘Belgian dignitaries acknowledged the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces. They also appreciated Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace and stability in the region and reiterated earnest desire for enhancing bilateral cooperation in all domains.’
The COAS that Gen Bajwa had discussions with the European External Action Service (EEAS) Secretary-General Stefano Sannio and EU Military Committee Chairman General Claudio Graziano. Matters of mutual interest, regional security, the Afghan crisis, bilateral relations between Pakistan and the European Union with the EU officials. He said, “Pakistan values its relations with the EU and earnestly looks forward to enhancing cooperation based on common interests.”
The dignitaries assured Pakistan of their collaborations and appreciated Pakistan’s effort regarding peace and stability in the region.
We are looking forward to more such collaborations and agreements that will help the region stabilize and make Pakistan expand its wings right across the region.
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