British envoy visits Balochistan, Chaman border

Dr Christian Turner briefed by civil-military leadership on border processes and issues affecting the province

British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner visited the Chaman border to see at first hand how the UK and Pakistan are working together to help the people of Afghanistan.

According to an official statement, Turner was briefed by Pakistani officials on the border processes and how authorities are working with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in this regard.

"It was part of a wider visit to Balochistan, during which he met the Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, and discussed how the issues in Afghanistan are affecting the province," it added.

On a 2 day visit to Baluchistan, discussing trade, livelihoods, investment and security with Chief Minister @AQuddusBizenjo @CMOBalochistan pic.twitter.com/c6eoT8j2R1

— Christian Turner (@CTurnerFCDO) February 3, 2022

The communique further said the two sides also discussed the wider security situation in the area and the protection of human rights.

"During his two-day trip, the High Commissioner also met Commander 12 Corps, Lieutenant General Sarfraz and gave a keynote speech at the Quetta Staff and Command College."

Turner said, “It’s very important for the UK to understand the issues facing Balochistan. During my visit to the Chaman border, I saw how the UK is working to help the people of Afghanistan, and that this is vital for the stability of the whole region.”

Also read: UK govt doubles aid for Afghanistan, says high commissioner

Last week, UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss pledged £97 million of additional funds to help Afghanistan this winter.

The statement added that the funding will provide over 2.7 million people with food, health services, and water amid a worsening crisis.

"The allocation of vital support means the UK has now delivered on its promise to double UK aid to Afghanistan, with £286 million committed this financial year."

It added "the aid will "support over 60 hospitals, provide health services for over 300,000 people, ensure 4.47 million people get emergency food assistance through the World Food Programme, and provide 6.1 million people with emergency health, water, protection, shelter, food, and education support through the UN Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund."