Foreign Secretary meets with Pakistan Prime Minister
Foreign Secretary William Hague met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and announced the opening of a new Deputy High Commission in Lahore.
William Hague and Nawaz Sharif discussed a shared vision for a safe and secure Pakistan achieving its economic and social potential. They also talked about cooperation on enhancing trade and investment which is an important part of the bilateral relationship.
The meeting took place during Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s first official bilateral visit to the UK since Pakistan’s 2013 elections.
Foreign Secretary William Hague said:
Pakistan and the UK continue to work together to strengthen the security and prosperity of both our countries. We share deep historical links and a vibrant British Pakistani community. In today’s meeting we committed ourselves to building on this relationship over the coming years. I am delighted to announce the expansion of our diplomatic network in Pakistan with the opening of a new Deputy High Commission in Lahore. This is a sign of our commitment to the bilateral relationship and increasing business with Punjab Province. We both want to support British companies investing in Pakistan, building prosperity in both countries by improving market access.
Following the meeting, the Foreign Secretary signed a Memorandum of Understanding setting out the remit of the British Council in Pakistan. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, accompanying Prime Minister Sharif, signed on behalf of Pakistan. The British Council’s activities will include opening libraries in Lahore and Karachi and create 15 new resource centres across the Punjab, giving teachers the opportunity to access educational materials.
Further information
UK - Pakistan Cultural and Education Roadmap
UK - Pakistan Trade and Investment Roadmap
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