John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 25: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if discussions are taking place with a view to strengthening EU-Pakistan relations; if discussions are taking place to explore a joint approach to supporting and strengthening the democratic institutions, institution building, legislative reform and voter participation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16885/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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There is a keen desire in the EU to strengthen and deepen its relations with Pakistan. Ireland is strongly supportive of these efforts. Pakistan is critical for regional stability and co-operation in South Asia, as well as in the global context. Pakistan is also important for ongoing stabilisation efforts in Afghanistan and in the fight against terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, proliferation, narcotics and illegal migration.

EU-Pakistan political dialogue takes place regularly at Ministerial and Senior Official level. Most recently, on 29 April the General Affairs and External Relations Council discussed the situation in Pakistan and adopted Conclusions welcoming the progress that has been made in the democratic process there. The Conclusions underline the EU's wish to strengthen the existing relationship with Pakistan and point to key areas such as economic development and trade, counter-terrorism, non-proliferation, migration, education, inter-cultural issues and regional cooperation. The Conclusions also emphasise the promotion of human rights — including women's and children's rights — and the need to explore ways to support strengthening of democratic institutions, institution building, legislative reform and voter participation. They state that the EU will approach the Pakistani authorities to explore jointly ways to support these areas. The importance of enhanced EU assistance to, and dialogue on, the rule of law is also underlined.

The Conclusions adopted on 29 April follow on from earlier Council discussions on Pakistan in January and Conclusions adopted in March which set out EU priorities for cooperation with the new Government in Pakistan.

The EU Election Observation Mission was the biggest and most comprehensive international presence observing the recent elections in Pakistan. The Mission's final report, issued on 16 April, makes a series of recommendations, including relating to the independence of the judiciary and the role of state media. I believe that the success of the Observation Mission provides an opportunity for further cooperation with Pakistan in these areas.