UK Commits to Interfaith Harmony and Socio-Economic Development in Pakistan
In a recent visit to Pakistan, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to promoting interfaith harmony and supporting socio-economic development in the country. During her trip to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Peshawar and Nowshera, the British envoy engaged in various meetings and events aimed at fostering interfaith dialogue, minority rights, regional stability, and socio-economic progress.
The visit started with a tour of the historic Mahabat Khan Mosque, where both the British envoy and Maulana Tayyab Qureshi emphasized the significance of respecting cultural heritage and promoting interfaith dialogue. This gesture highlighted the importance of preserving Pakistan’s rich cultural legacy.
Furthermore, Marriott met with representatives from the United Nations Development Programme and the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to discuss matters of border governance, connectivity, and regional stability, particularly in the newly-merged districts. These conversations aimed to enhance cooperation in these areas for the benefit of both Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
Amid discussions on security and the importance of timely elections, Jane Marriott and caretaker Chief Minister Azam Khan jointly launched GoBiz, an online portal designed to streamline government-business relations. This initiative marks a significant step towards modernization and efficiency, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to supporting the progress and development of Pakistan’s economic landscape.
During her visit to Nowshera, the British High Commissioner had the opportunity to meet with beneficiaries of the UK-funded Aawaz II and DafPak programs. This platform allowed her to witness firsthand the positive impact of these initiatives, which address critical issues such as gender-based violence, minority rights, child marriages, and healthcare service delivery in remote areas. Marriott expressed her admiration for the young individuals she met through Aawaz II, acknowledging their role as catalysts for positive change in their communities and the entire country.
In summary, the visit by British High Commissioner Jane Marriott served as a reminder of the shared commitment between the United Kingdom and Pakistan towards promoting interfaith harmony, regional stability, and socio-economic development. Marriott’s exploration of Pakistan’s cultural heritage and engagement with various stakeholders demonstrated the UK’s support for the country’s past and future. The launch of GoBiz and the positive impact of UK-funded programs further highlighted the dedication to modernization, efficiency, and addressing critical issues for a brighter and more prosperous Pakistan.
Through ongoing collaboration and support, the UK and Pakistan continue working together to build a society that values interfaith harmony, respects cultural heritage, and promotes socio-economic development.
