Maryam invites EU investment in Punjab

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met European Union’s Parliamentary Delegation for South Asia and discussed bilateral relations, trade, education and investment, here on Saturday.

“Arrival of European Union’s parliamentary delegation is a manifestation of strong, peaceful and friendly bilateral relations,” she said while warmly welcoming the delegation. She agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations for trade, peace, development and common goals.

She offered EU companies to invest in education, IT, green energy and health sectors in Punjab. The CM said, “Pakistan values its reliable friendship with the European Union. EU is not only Pakistan’s trading partner but also a voice of stability in the world.”

She added, “GSP Plus has greatly improved Pakistan’s exports to the European Union, especially in the textile sector.” She highlighted, “We are taking steps to fulfil all EU requirements including human rights and labour reforms.”

CM Maryam said, “Punjab is the heart of Pakistan’s economy, providing a conducive business environment for investment.” She added, “We want to increase cooperation with the European Union in agriculture, energy, digital infrastructure and environmental projects.”

The CM said, “Pakistan’s youth are talented and dynamic, training courses are being conducted to connect them to the global job market.” She added, “I am happy that Pakistani students are among the top recipients of Erasmus Mundus scholarships for the third year in a row.” She underscored, “Pakistan is committed to regional and global peace.”

The EU delegation appreciated Punjab government’s innovative initiatives.

Separately, CM Maryam Nawaz directed deputy commissioners (DCs) to take steps to make anti-polio campaign effective in their respective districts. “No child should be deprived of polio vaccine drops,” she ordered. She directed the DCs to review union council-wise polio campaign on daily basis.

She directed all district administrations to ensure effective implementation of anti-polio vaccination microplan. She said, “The target of zero polio can be easily achieved with joint efforts.” She added, “It is unacceptable for any child to be at risk of polio.”

Provincial secretary Primary and Secondary Healthcare briefed CM Maryam Nawaz in detail on the anti-polio vaccination campaign.