Islamabad: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have explored avenues to enhance trade and cooperation across key sectors, aiming for tangible outcomes in the upcoming bilateral Trade Dialogue. This development emerged from a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting, held at the Ministry of Commerce and attended by Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul along with senior ministry officials, focused on expanding trade and investment cooperation in sectors such as healthcare and life sciences, information technology, agriculture and livestock, financial services, aviation, and minerals-related services.

The UK proposed a non-legally binding investment partnership, potentially supported at the ministerial level, to frame cooperation in mutually agreed sectors. Areas of interest included regulatory reforms, trade facilitation, education and workforce skills, and investment financing.

Minister Jam Kamal Khan underscored the importance of the livestock sector, highlighting opportunities for British expertise, technology, and investment. He detailed the Prime Minister’s interest in improving animal productivity and increasing value addition and meat exports. The High Commissioner emphasized the integration of food safety and regulatory requirements to enhance market access for Pakistani producers.

Discussions also covered the international branding of Pakistani products, with a focus on promoting items such as pink salt, olive oil, food products, textiles, and surgical instruments. Both sides recognized the potential for Pakistani businesses to develop brands and capture more value in international markets.

In the aviation sector, British engagement with Airbus and Rolls-Royce was discussed, including potential aircraft and engine arrangements for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The dialogue also explored export credit support and aircraft leasing options to address fleet requirements.

The meeting addressed cooperation in Islamic finance and opportunities to bolster financial links with the Pakistani diaspora in the UK. In the minerals sector, Pakistan sought experienced partners for technical exploration and joint ventures, with the UK expressing interest in supporting legal, financial, and insurance services.

As Pakistan approaches its 80th anniversary in 2027, discussions included leveraging the milestone to showcase bilateral cooperation through business, education, and cultural events. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continued coordination and preparation for the next trade dialogue.