EU, Pakistan sign MoU on €653 million programme

ISLAMABAD: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the Europe Union (EU) Multi Indicative Programme (2014-2020) with a commitment of €653 million has been signed between the Government of Pakistan through Secretary EAD Tariq Bajwa and the EU through Ambassador Jean-Francois Cautain.

The signing of the MoU was witnessed by Minister of Finance Senator Ishaq Dar and ambassadors and representatives from the EU member states.The minister on this occasion stated that the government appreciates the development assistance being given to Pakistan by the EU. He appreciated the fact that the new MIP at €653 million is almost double the amount of the previous MIP.

He stated that building a stable, democratic pluralistic and economically vibrant Pakistan is the aim of the government. He said the government is committed to achieving this objective and called upon the EU and its member countries tosupport Pakistan in achieving this objective.

“The €653 million EU Multiannual Indicative Programme for Pakistan sets out the EU’s development strategic objectives in support of a stable, democratic and pluralistic Pakistan in line with the EU-Pakistan five years engagement plan 2012-2017, which frames the relationship between the EU and Pakistan,” said EU Ambassador Jean-Francois Cautain.

The MoU, it may be added, reflects the indicative and mutually agreed assistance priorities for the period 2014-2020. The assistance provided under the MIP 2014-2020 will concentrate on three focal sectors:

Rural development with focus on underdeveloped communities unlikely to benefit from mainstream development, in order to reduce social and economic inequality and improving resilience, enhancing opportunities for economic growth in rural areas.

Education with the aim to accelerate human development and achieve related Sustainable Development Goals by improving access, quality and governance of the education system.Good governance, human rights and rule of law with the aim to contribute to the consolidation of democratic institutions at federal, provincial and local level, support to rule of law, inclusive, rights based society.