Islamabad, 4 April 2024 (TDI): Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner, recently paid a visit to Pakistan’s Minister for Defense, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, aiming to expand defense and security cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, Minister Asif, the Defense Minister underscored Pakistan’s continuous commitment to it’s bilateral relations with UK. Moreover, he appreciated Britain’s efforts in the Afghan reconciliation process.
Minister for Defense expressed the desire to maintain the Pak-UK Defense Cooperation Forum (DCF) at the level of Defense Ministries.
The Minister and the High Commissioner expressed satisfaction over the ongoing collaboration between the two countries for regional stability.
Both sides stressed the need for the expansion of defense and security ties between the two countries.
Pakistan-UK Defense Cooperation
Defense ties between UK and Pakistan are marked by institutional mechanisms like the Defense Cooperation Forum and the National Security Dialogue.
Moreover, the collaboration between both countries is significantly enhanced by Joint military exercises and training programs, including the annual training of Pakistan officers in UK.
However, the 1.6 million Pakistani diaspora in the UK, one of the largest ethnic minority groups, plays a vital role in enriching the socio-economic landscape of the country.
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Their representation in the British Parliament and their cultural contributions serve as clear indicators of the substantial influence in bolstering bilateral relations between the UK and Pakistan.
The meeting between the British High Commissioner and the Minister for Defense underscores the enduring commitment of Pakistan and the UK to fortify their strategic partnership and advance shared interests in defense and security.
