Islamabad: In a recent development, Pakistan has raised concerns regarding xenophobic remarks directed at its community in the United Kingdom. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson, highlighted the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and the UK, emphasizing the importance of combating racist and Islamophobic rhetoric.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, responded to media queries on the issue by underlining the warmth and trust that characterize the relationship between the two nations. He noted that this relationship, nurtured over decades, remains a priority for Pakistan’s foreign policy, encompassing areas such as trade, education, security, and people-to-people contacts.

The British-Pakistani diaspora, numbering 1.7 million, was described as a significant link between the two countries. Khan expressed deep concern over political and media commentary in the UK that conflates the actions of a few individuals with the entire diaspora, labeling it increasingly racist and Islamophobic.

Highlighting the contributions of British nationals of Pakistani origin, Khan mentioned their role in the UK’s growth and development, tracing back to the sacrifices made by soldiers from present-day Pakistan during the World Wars. He stressed that British Pakistanis are integral to sectors like health, retail, and services, and many hold high public office positions.

Khan concluded by condemning the demonization of the British-Pakistani community based on the actions of a few individuals, calling for a more balanced and respectful discourse.