Pakistan and UK Reinforce Ties with Renewed Emphasis on Defence and Trade
The Press Information Department (PID) has reported that Pakistan and the United Kingdom have committed to deepening their partnership in core areas, especially in defence cooperation and strategic dialogue, during the two sides’ top level talks held in Rawalpindi on Monday.
The two countries have been participating in Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD) with the UK since 2011, which has intensified the dialogue with the UK covering trade, economic development, cultural exchange, security, and education.
This understanding was reached in a discussion that took place in Rawalpindi with Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj and the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott.
“Pakistan considers the United Kingdom a close friend and a genuine development partner,” Harraj was quoted as saying.
Minister Harraj further stated, “Frequent interaction has been useful in coordinating our approaches to various bilateral, regional and international issues. The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in all fields, including defence. ”As per the statement, Harraj expressed the expectation that UK-Pakistan bilateral relations will evolve on the principles of mutual respect, shared common interest, and understanding of each other’s perspectives.
“It added with The British High Commissioner disclosed that she remains committed to fostering the UK-Pakistan partnership and collaborating with Pakistan on mutual concerns such as trade, defence production, and others of shared interest.”
In July, both countries signed the Trade Dialogue Mechanism Agreement and created the UK-Pakistan Business Advisory Council to formalize enhanced economic collaboration between the two countries.
Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilan has expressed that Pakistan greatly appreciates the enduring and evolving relationship with the UK that is anchored in shared history, values, and traditions.
