The British High Commission in Islamabad celebrated His Majesty King Charles III’s 77th birthday by hosting a cultural event highlighting the Four Nations and strengthening longstanding diplomatic relations with Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif joined British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE to welcome guests, marking another milestone year in bilateral engagement between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The celebration followed significant developments in 2025, including improved travel connectivity after the lifting of the air safety ban on Pakistani airlines operating flights to the UK for the first time in years.
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This progress enabled Pakistan International Airlines to resume flights to Manchester after a five-year suspension, boosting travel, tourism, and people-to-people contact between the two countries.
Another important development was the introduction of the UK’s eVisa system for Pakistani students and workers, simplifying application procedures and making mobility easier for thousands seeking educational and professional opportunities.
Bilateral trade reached a historic milestone by touching £5.5 billion in 2025, surpassing the £5 billion mark for the first time and strengthening economic cooperation across multiple sectors.
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The UK continued supporting Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts through humanitarian and reconstruction programs while encouraging long-term resilience against climate-related challenges affecting vulnerable communities.
This year also saw the launch of the UK–Pakistan Trade Dialogue, which opened new pathways for collaboration in services, technology, digital innovation, and future investment opportunities.
High Commissioner Jane Marriott emphasized that the United Kingdom’s four nations—England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales – each play a meaningful role in sustaining strong ties with Pakistan across diplomacy and culture.
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Guests were welcomed with music from Pakistani Military bagpipers, symbolizing the shared appreciation of tradition, while singer Maria Unera performed classic British hits representing the heritage of the Four Nations.
The British High Commission highlighted its continued commitment to strengthening cooperation, deepening cultural understanding, and expanding long-term partnerships between the UK and Pakistan.
The event concluded with renewed confidence that both nations will continue building stronger diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties in the coming years through shared values and mutual respect.
