Pakistan · World · Independent Digital Newsroom
She emphasised that greater engagement with French companies could open new avenues for industrial development, technology transfer and economic growth.
The French ambassador invited the chief minister to visit France to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral trade and economic relations.CM Maryam Nawaz thanked him for the invitation and expressed her interest in strengthening commercial and industrial ties between the two sides.The meeting also focused on Pakistan’s GSP+ status and its significance for the country’s exports and industrial economy.
The chief minister described the preferential trade arrangement as a lifeline for Pakistan’s exports, particularly for Punjab’s textile, garments, sports goods and leather industries, which depend heavily on access to European markets.She stressed that France’s support was important for safeguarding Pakistan’s trade interests within the European Union and maintaining preferential access for Pakistani products.
She said alignment with the requirements of the new GSP+ framework was essential for securing the country’s export prospects.Maryam Nawaz noted that the European Union was Pakistan’s largest trading partner, with Pakistan’s exports to the bloc reaching approximately $8.96 billion in 2025-26.
She underscored the importance of continued diplomatic engagement with France to strengthen Pakistan’s position on GSP+ and further consolidate trade relations with the EU.Recalling France’s previous support for Pakistan’s GSP+ status at the ministerial level, CM Punjab expressed confidence that continued French cooperation would help protect Pakistan’s commercial interests in European markets.The chief minister also thanked France for providing a €180 million loan for National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC)….
French utility companies could participate in water supply, wastewater management, sewerage and solid waste services under the public-private partnership model.She further said French energy companies could explore opportunities in solar energy, grid infrastructure and energy-efficiency projects in industrial estates, while French institutions could assist in technical training and skills development for Punjab’s workforce through industrial clusters under PIVOT.The CM observed that PIVOT could provide an effective platform for establishing direct….
Referring to the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen of 1789, she appreciated France’s historic contribution to the principles of liberty, equality and human dignity.She also commended France’s recognition of Palestine and its principled position on justice and equal rights.Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through sustained diplomatic engagement, increased trade, investment and industrial partnerships and cooperation in mutually beneficial areas of….
LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif held a meeting with the new French Ambassador to Pakistan Jean-Noël Poirier to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade and investment and expanding industrial cooperation between Punjab and France.
