Pakistan, UK Pledge Deeper Cooperation on Democracy, Reforms, and Overseas Pakistanis

Islamabad, August 20 — Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on democracy, reforms, diaspora facilitation, and defence cooperation.

Meeting in Islamabad

On Wednesday, Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Danyal Chaudhry met British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in Islamabad to discuss the long-standing partnership under the Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD).

Launched in 2011, the ESD has expanded cooperation between the two countries in trade, development, security, culture, and education.

Democracy and Institutional Reforms

Chaudhry highlighted Pakistan’s democratic trajectory, stressing that strong institutions and constructive dialogue are vital for a sustainable democracy. He underscored the need to empower local governments to deliver services effectively and advance development goals.

He further outlined government efforts to counter misinformation and promote Pakistan’s narrative internationally. Marriott was also invited to observe educational reforms, including initiatives to establish international-standard institutions and improve public school enrollment.

Support for Overseas Pakistanis

The meeting also touched upon concerns of Pakistani-origin citizens in the UK, particularly on taxation and diaspora facilitation. Marriott welcomed ongoing efforts to support overseas Pakistanis and expressed readiness to collaborate further to enhance services for the diaspora.

Poverty Alleviation and Development

Both sides discussed joint strategies to alleviate poverty and uplift the living standards of people living below the poverty line. Chaudhry emphasized Pakistan’s focus on inclusive reforms and long-term socio-economic growth.

Broader Diplomatic Engagements

This meeting came shortly after Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s two-day visit to the UK, where he met his British counterpart Angela Rayner, British parliamentarians of Pakistani origin, and Kashmiri leaders.

Earlier this month, High Commissioner Marriott also met Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj in Rawalpindi. The discussions reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to deepen defence and strategic cooperation.

“Pakistan considers the United Kingdom a close friend and a genuine development partner,” Harraj stated. “Frequent interaction has been useful in coordinating our approaches to bilateral, regional, and international issues.”

Strengthening the Pak-UK Partnership

With regular high-level exchanges, both countries continue to expand cooperation under the ESD framework. The latest engagements underscore a shared resolve to broaden ties across democracy, diaspora facilitation, education, defence, and economic development.