UK keen to expand bilateral partnership with Pakistan

May 21, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, with both sides expressing strong interest in expanding cooperation across security, trade, investment and development.

The understanding emerged during a meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell at the Prime Minister House.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, SAPM Tariq Fatemi, Foreign Secretary Ambassador Amna Baloch and Secretary National Security Division Sajid Baloch were also present, said a press release issued.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan's firm commitment to maintaining robust and forward-looking engagement with the United Kingdom, describing it as a longstanding strategic partner.

He conveyed his best wishes for Prime Minister  Keir Starmer and recalled a warm telephone conversation between the two leaders last month, in which they had expressed a shared desire to further deepen Pakistan-UK ties.

Jonathan Powell conveyed appreciation for Pakistan's constructive role in regional diplomacy, including its ongoing efforts to facilitate dialogue and de-escalation across the broader region. He also congratulated the Prime Minister on the government's economic reform agenda, noting the UK's keen interest in broadening bilateral collaboration in key sectors.

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