- Terrorist organisations operating from Afghan soil matter of concern.”
- Pakistan is UK’s most important ally in war against terrorism, envoy says.
- Says there is a lot of Pakistani skilled labour who can work for reconstruction of Ukraine.
In a recent interview, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, commended the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Army in the fight against terrorism. She emphasized that the sacrifices made by the armed forces not only contribute to maintaining peace within Pakistan but also play a crucial role in upholding global security.
Marriott conveyed her condolences to the families of those who have laid down their lives in the battle against terrorism. She underlined that Pakistan stands at the forefront of the war on terrorism and remains a vital ally to the United Kingdom in this endeavor.
The British envoy expressed concerns regarding the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist groups, including the Haqqani Group, operating within Afghan territory. She urged the Taliban to take decisive actions against these groups, highlighting that failure to do so would pose a threat not only to Pakistan but to the entire world, drawing parallels to the events of 9/11.
While acknowledging the attention on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Marriott stressed that the international community has not lost sight of the situation in Afghanistan. She revealed ongoing efforts by the UK to engage with the Taliban government in Afghanistan through negotiations. Addressing humanitarian concerns, particularly the rights of girls and women, remains a priority in these discussions.
Marriott also shed light on the positive changes seen in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s return to power. She noted a significant reduction in heroin cultivation, which had previously been devastating the lives of young individuals worldwide. She emphasized the need to acknowledge and appreciate such developments.
Discussing the rehabilitation of Ukraine, Marriott highlighted the potential role of Pakistani construction companies in the reconstruction efforts of the war-torn country. She praised Pakistan’s skilled labor force, suggesting they could contribute significantly to rebuilding Ukraine. Marriott condemned Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and expressed the Western world’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Climate change emerged as another crucial topic in the conversation. Marriott acknowledged Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate-related challenges, evident from the frequent occurrences of floods. Drawing from the UK’s own experience with industrialization and subsequent environmental concerns, she emphasized the importance of global collaboration in mitigating climate change’s impacts. The UK pledged full support to Pakistan in obtaining international climate financing through private investments.
The British envoy also highlighted the robust economic ties between Pakistan and the UK. The existing trade volume, amounting to 4.4 billion pounds (Rs1,672 billion), underscores the mutual understanding of each other’s needs, fostering a strong and productive trading partnership.
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Jane Marriott’s remarks underscore the invaluable sacrifices of the Pakistan Army and its pivotal role in global security. Her insights shed light on the multifaceted challenges facing the region, from counterterrorism efforts to climate change mitigation and economic cooperation. As Pakistan and the UK continue their diplomatic collaboration, the world watches with interest, appreciating the commitment to a safer and more stable future.
