Pakistan, UK vow continued collaboration on development, reform priorities

July 22, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, with both sides agreeing to continue collaboration on the country's reform agenda, tariff policy overhaul, and sector-specific initiatives spanning mobile, industrial, and energy policy.

Sam Waldock, Development Director at the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), called on Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema to discuss ongoing development initiatives and areas of collaboration between the two countries.

During the meeting, the Minister apprised Sam Waldock of the Government's efforts to reform tariff policy and roll out comprehensive sector-specific reforms aimed at strengthening economic competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth, according to a press release issued.

Sam Waldock welcomed the progress on tariff reforms and the broader sector-specific agenda, reaffirming the UK's continued support for Pakistan's development priorities through collaboration in key sectors.

Ahad Cheema acknowledged FCDO's support for the Strategic Initiatives Unit (SIU), which is strengthening policy implementation through embedded delivery mechanisms, as well as its assistance to the Governance Reforms Unit (GRU) in advancing institutional reforms.

He noted that the current petroleum pricing mechanism has helped curb hoarding and improve market stability, adding to transparency and efficiency across the sector.

The Minister said economic stability remains the Government's foremost priority, with the Prime Minister personally chairing weekly reviews of the Federal Board of Revenue's (FBR) performance and closely monitoring development initiatives and key financial projects.

He added that the Government remains committed to strictly following the approved development roadmap, with the Planning Commission and other relevant departments working in close coordination, and that all new development projects will now undergo predictive analysis to improve planning and ensure better utilization of public resources.

Sam Waldock commended the Government's reform measures in the power and petroleum sectors, recognizing steps taken to improve sectoral performance, transparency, and sustainability.

Concluding the meeting, he expressed confidence that Pakistan and the UK would continue working closely toward shared development objectives, while Ahad Cheema conveyed his appreciation for the UK's longstanding partnership and continued support for Pakistan's reform agenda.

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