Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has lauded the invaluable contribution of overseas Pakistanis in strengthening Pakistan-UK relations. He was addressing a ceremony held in Islamabad today to celebrate the 77th birthday of King Charles-III of the United Kingdom.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister noted that nearly two million British citizens of Pakistani heritage play a proactive role across various sectors in the UK, adding significant value to the enduring friendship between the two countries. Shehbaz Sharif praised King Charles-III for his life of public service, describing him as a source of inspiration for millions across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and beyond.
He expressed gratitude for the heartfelt condolences extended by the UK’s government and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott following recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and other parts of Pakistan. He stressed that terrorism remains a grave threat to global peace and stability.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Pakistan, with its valiant armed forces and resilient people, stands united and determined to confront and defeat the scourge of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Recalling his personal attendance at King Charles-III’s coronation ceremony two years ago and a recent telephone conversation in September last year, he emphasized the personal interest and patronage of the Royal Family in advancing the multifaceted Pakistan-UK partnership.
He also appreciated the role of British High Commissioner Jane Marriot in the resumption of PIA flights to Manchester and extended a cordial invitation to King Charles-III and the Queen to visit Pakistan at their earliest convenience.
In her remarks, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott expressed condolences over the recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and reiterated the UK’s support to Pakistan. She highlighted the deep bilateral relations and noted that fifteen British MPs of Pakistani origin currently serve in the UK Parliament, including Shabana Mahmood, the first Muslim woman appointed as the UK’s Home Secretary. She also mentioned that the trade relationship between Pakistan and the UK is growing, reaching 5.5 billion pounds annually.