The European Parliament this week adopted a Resolution calling for a review of Trade Relations with Pakistan and ending its eligibility for the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) status.
The Resolution linked the review to Pakistan’s #Blasphemy Laws; in particular, the case of Shagufta Kausar and Shafqat Emmanuel; who have been on Death row since 2014 for sending ‘Blasphemous’ text messages — a charge they Deny.
It was overwhelmingly Passed — 662 to 3 — with 26 not voting.
The text called on the European Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to; “immediately review Pakistan’s eligibility for GSP+ status in light of current events”.
It also said there is “sufficient reason” to initiate a procedure for the temporary withdrawal of this status and the benefits that come with it.
The EU’s GSP allows Products to come into the EU market from vulnerable Developing countries without import Duties.
The scheme slashes tariffs to zero percent for vulnerable Low and lower-middle-income countries; that implement 27 international conventions related to human rights, labor rights, protection of the environment, and good governance.
I am a freelance writer studying Mass Communication at the University of Karachi in the faculty of Media sciences. Also certified from Hubspot Academy as a Content Marketer.