UK eyes long-term investment

Pakistan and the United Kingdom discussed ways to further enhance trade and cooperation in priority sectors and deliver concrete outcomes through the next bilateral Trade Dialogue, during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott.

The meeting was held at the Ministry of Commerce and attended by Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul and senior ministry officials focused on expanding trade and investment cooperation in healthcare and life sciences, information technology, agriculture and livestock, financial services, aviation and minerals-related services.

The British side outlined the possibility of a long-term, non-legally binding investment partnership, supported at the ministerial level, to provide a framework for cooperation in mutually agreed sectors. Potential areas included regulatory reforms, trade facilitation, education and workforce skills, and investment financing.

Khan highlighted livestock as an important area of cooperation, noting the prime minister's keen interest in strengthening the sector, improving animal productivity and increasing value addition and meat exports. He underscored the opportunities for British expertise, technology and investment to support modern livestock practices and stronger commercial linkages.

The high commissioner highlighted the importance of incorporating food safety and regulatory requirements into sector development, enabling Pakistani producers to access UK and other international markets. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing engagement through the healthcare and life sciences working group.

The federal minister emphasised the need to strengthen the international branding of Pakistani products and help businesses develop a stronger presence in overseas markets. Discussions covered opportunities to promote Pakistani pink salt, olive oil, food products, textiles and surgical instruments through quality assurance, value addition and effective marketing.

Both sides recognised the potential for Pakistani businesses to develop their own brands and capture greater value from products already supplied to international markets. They also discussed opportunities for Pakistani food businesses and restaurant brands to expand their presence in the United Kingdom.

Cooperation in aviation was another major area of discussion. The British side spoke about engagement involving Airbus and Rolls-Royce, including potential aircraft and engine arrangements for PIA and possible export credit support. Aircraft leasing was discussed as a means of addressing immediate fleet requirements while longer-term procurement options were also considered.