London (TDI): Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Yousaf Raza Gilani, reaffirmed the crucial role of the Pakistani diaspora in fostering stronger ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
He described overseas Pakistanis as a “vital bridge” promoting mutual understanding, goodwill, and cooperation between the two nations, during his visit to London en route to Barbados for the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC).
In London, he held meetings with key figures of Pakistani origin in the UK, including Deputy Mayor of Slough, Asim Ranjha, and British Member of Parliament, Muhammad Yasin.
In his meeting with Deputy Mayor Asim Ranjha, who hails from Sargodha, Gilani lauded Ranjha’s contributions to the welfare of the Pakistani community in the UK.
He commended the efforts of the diaspora in strengthening Pakistan’s image abroad and emphasized the shared responsibility of building stronger cultural and economic linkages.
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“We deeply value the contributions of our expatriate community,” Gilani said, adding that people-to-people connections enhance bilateral relations beyond governmental corridors.
Gilani further noted the long-standing, historic relationship between Pakistan and the UK, rooted in mutual respect and shared democratic values.
He expressed Pakistan’s desire to further deepen cooperation across sectors such as trade, education, parliamentary exchange, and community development.
Deputy Mayor Ranjha expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue working to bridge the gap between the diaspora and British society. He reiterated his commitment to fostering integration, civic engagement, and cultural pride among British Pakistanis.
Separately, Gilani met with MP Muhammad Yasin, a prominent British parliamentarian of Pakistani origin.
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Their discussion focused on enhancing institutional collaboration, parliamentary exchanges, and engagement on global and regional issues.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of dialogue and the constructive role of the diaspora in policy and community affairs.
Chairman Gilani praised the efforts of British Pakistanis, particularly those advocating for the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and supporting Pakistan’s democratic and development journey.
MP Yasin acknowledged Pakistan’s parliamentary traditions and expressed his dedication to strengthening ties between the two parliaments.
He emphasized that members of the diaspora are not only cultural ambassadors but also contributors to a more inclusive and informed society in the UK.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
