Islamabad: A meeting of the Pakistan-UK Parliamentary Friendship Group (PFG) was held at the Parliament House in Islamabad, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between the two nations. The gathering brought together Lord Wajid Khan, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, and the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, alongside members of the PFG.

Mr. Bilal Azhar Kayani, Minister of State for Railways and the convener of the Pakistan-UK PFG, highlighted the structure of the group, drawing parallels with the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group. He outlined initiatives to enhance bilateral ties and emphasized the importance of the Pakistani diaspora in enriching relations between Pakistan and the UK.

Lord Wajid Khan, representing the UK, acknowledged the significant role of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK, the second largest in the country. He stressed the broad collaboration between the UK and Pakistan, encompassing economy, security, human rights, climate change, and development. The UK stands as Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner, with trade reaching £4.4 billion, and as the primary source of foreign direct investment, contributing £2.5 billion in 2023.

A working group focusing on religious hate crimes is anticipated in the UK, with Lord Khan expressing an intention to engage members to foster interfaith harmony. He addressed the need for innovative strategies to fortify economic ties and reiterated the UK’s commitment to climate finance, reflecting on his visit to flood-affected Sehwan in Pakistan.

Lord Khan also pointed to London Tech Week as a vital platform for Pakistani businesses to engage in dialogue and networking, noting the presence of over 200 UK businesses operating in Pakistan. He encouraged further exploration of investment opportunities.

Group members acknowledged the contributions of the convener and the British High Commissioner, urging the development of strategic initiatives. Significant issues such as the Kashmir conflict, global climate cooperation, rising Islamophobia in Europe, and the humanitarian situation in Palestine were also discussed, highlighting the need for immediate action and aid.

The meeting was attended by numerous members of the National Assembly, both in person and virtually, demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing the objectives of the Pakistan-UK Parliamentary Friendship Group.