Islamabad: The Ambassador of the European Union (EU), Jean Francois Cautain, said that the European Union has certain concerns over the executions being carried out in Pakistan since the moratorium on death penalty was lifted by Pakistan. The EU Ambassador was answering questions from the audience at a reception hosted in his honor by the President of the English Speaking Union (ESU), Mr Khalid Malik at his residence Thursday evening. The EU envoy said that the EU is aware of the extraordinary conditions which compelled Pakistan to lift moratorium on death penalty. But, he added, majority of executions carried out over the period since the moratorium has been lifted, were not related to the acts of terrorism. “The situation requires of Pakistan to exercise more caution while awarding and carrying out executions in accordance with the country’s unusual conditions,” Ambassador Jean Francois Cautain replied answering a question. In his key note speech the EU Ambassador explained European Union-Pakistan relation, specially highlighting the role of European Union in development of Pakistan and other issues. He also spoke about the impact of ‘Brexit’ on the EU and how other major partners in the EU were engaged in dealing with the situation arising out of the pull out of the UK. He also stressed the need for developing business relations and enhancing trade between Pakistan and European Union for which there is lot of potential. He also said that European Union and Pakistan have many common interests which makes it even more necessary to enhance cooperation. Earlier, the meeting was called to order by the ESU Secretary General, Mr. Abid Ali, and in his welcome address the President Mr. Khalid Malik welcomed the guests and appreciated the cooperation of all the members of the ESU present on the occasion. Welcoming the Ambassador of European Union, Mr Khalid Malik highlighted the distinguished career of the EU Ambassador. He said that being an outstanding diplomat, Jean Francois Cautain, over a short span of time has become very popular amongst Pakistanis. He also thanked high officials from foreign office, diplomatic core, Ambassador of Romania and his wife, Czech Republic, Japan Embassy, the media persons and members of the English Speaking Union for attending the reception. In the ‘question/answer’ session which followed his speech, Ambassador Jean Francois Cautain responded comprehensively to a few questions put to him with patience and promptness. His views were appreciated by those attending the reception. Ambassador Aftab Hussain Syed, being the host of the function, in his ‘vote of thanks’ appreciated the efforts of the members of ESU and congratulated the President Mr. Khalid Malik and members of the executive committee for making such good arrangements. In the end Mr. Khalid Malik presented a shield with insignia of English Speaking Union to Ambassador Jean Francois Cautain. The session was followed by dinner which was appreciated by the Ambassador of European Union and all the members and other guests.
