Prince Charles calls PM Imran, reiterates support to cope with Covid challenges

Britain’s Prince Charles has telephoned Prime Minister Imran Khan and reiterated the United Kingdom’s assistance to Pakistan to cope with coronavirus challenges.

An official statement issued by the British High Commission on Thursday said the Prince of Wales expressed sorrow over Covid-19 fatalities in Pakistan.

The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and reiterated their commitment to further strengthen ties, it added.

In a Tweet from his official handle British High Commissioner Christian Turner said: “HRH The Prince of Wales champions the bond between #Commonwealth nations. Today he spoke to @ImranKhanPTI to reaffirm UK and Pakistan ties.”

The British heir-to-the-throne appreciated Pakistan's commitment to tackle global warming and reaffirmed that the UK would support Islamabad to promote renewable energy initiatives in the country.

Both leaders also agreed on the need for global cooperation to tackle issues related to climate change.

Britain is hosting the United Nations' climate change summit, known as COP26, the prince told the premier.

Later a statement issued by the PM Office said Premier Imran held telephonic conversation with Prince Charles and exchanged views on bilateral relations, issues of mutual interest including Covid-19, climate change and biodiversity.

PM Imran expressed condolences on the loss of precious lives in the UK due to Covid-19 and underlined that international cooperation was pivotal for success in fight against the pandemic.

He said that Pakistan has been able to mitigate the deleterious impacts of Covid-19 on health and economy through national coordinated efforts, smart lockdowns and implementation of standard pperating procedures (SOPs).

Prime Minister Imran underlined that climate change being one of the most pressing issues of our times, Pakistan was committed to work with the global community to tackle this problem, said the communiqué.

He briefed the Prince of Wales on steps taken by the government to address the challenges of climate change, highlighting the launching of ‘Eco-System Restoration Initiative’, including 10 Billion Tree Plantation Project as well as establishment of national parks under Protected Areas Initiative.

Pakistan and UK have a growing bilateral relationship and increasing cooperation at multilateral fora especially the Commonwealth as well as a strong commitment to work together in all areas of mutual interest.

PM Imran extended invitation to the Prince of Wales to visit Pakistan along with the Duchess of Cornwall.